2026

• Accelerating ball screw development and commercialization for EMB based on proven track record in EHB with expanding adoption in Europe

NTN Corporation (hereafter, NTN) is participating in advanced development projects with leading global manufacturers for ball screws used in Electro Mechanical Brakes (EMB), a field where demand is expected to grow with the electrification of automobiles. NTN is currently mass-producing ball screws for Electro Hydraulic Brakes (EHB) and will accelerate its expansion into the EMB market based on its proven track record and technologies.

NTN's ball screws for EHB are mass-produced for major brake manufacturers as drive modules integrating with bearing technologies. In recent years, inquiries for new projects have been increasing across regions, particularly in Europe. As the EHB market continues to expand, NTN is further strengthening its supply capabilities and sales infrastructure.

Ball screws convert rotational motion into linear motion and are used across a wide range of automotive applications. NTN began mass production of ball screws for automotive applications in 2004 and has since built a strong track record, particularly in engine and transmission applications. In 2012, NTN was among the first in the industry to begin mass production of ball screws for EHB and has since continued to advance its technologies in applications requiring high responsiveness and reliability.

Currently, NTN offers drive modules for EHB that integrate ball screws, gears, and bearings. By integrating key components, the modules achieve the high responsiveness and controllability required for brake systems, while also enhancing performance and enabling greater design flexibility. NTN delivers high quality and reliability by leveraging tribology, heat treatment, and precision machining technologies cultivated through its bearing business, along with a stable mass production system. Going forward, NTN will position Japan as its mother plant while considering production expansion in Asia and Europe, thereby building a global supply structure.

While demand for EHB is expected to continue growing due to the mandatory adoption of collision mitigation braking systems and the widespread use of ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), a transition toward EMB is also anticipated as a next-generation brake system that eliminates the need for hydraulic piping. In EMB systems, the number of ball screws used per vehicle is expected to increase, contributing to mid-to-long-term market growth.

Against this backdrop, NTN is advancing the development of ball screws for EMB applications by participating in advanced development projects and conducting prototyping.

By accelerating expansion into the EMB market based on its track record and technologies cultivated through EHB, NTN will contribute to the electrification of automobiles and enhanced safety, while pursuing further business growth in the global market.

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