Continental Wins 2022 PACE Technology and Partnership Awards

MK C2, the winning technology of the night, is Continental’s second-generation brake-by-wire system. Based on an outstanding joint development together with BMW Group, MK C2 went into series production for the German premium manufacturer BMW Group in July 2022. The MK C2 is used across all BMW Group vehicle segments, independent of powertrain technology.

MK C2 brake system contributes to the overall performance of a vehicle by making it more efficient, safer, and scalable. The system integrates the master cylinder (MC), brake booster and control systems (ABS and ESC) into a single compact and lightweight module. In terms of benefits to the driver, the system offers significantly quicker buildup of autonomous braking pressure than conventional hydraulic systems, resulting in a swift response when braking.

“The MK C2 enables a new future of braking,” said Kuehnke. “It can be integrated in all types of powertrain architectures and, thanks to its high efficiency, reduces CO2 while extending range. The MK C2 is scalable to support SAE Level 3 or higher. The capabilities and benefits offered by MK C2 bring the brake-by-wire system to the next level.”

In 2017, Continental was honored with the PACE Award for its integrated brake system MK C1, the first iteration of the brake-by-wire solution.  The MK C2 has been in series production since July 2022.

In addition to the MK C2 Automotive News PACE Award, Continental and BMW Group were awarded a PACE Innovation Partnership Award for their collaboration on the CoSmA digital access solution technology.  

“It is an honor to have our seamless teamwork with BMW Group recognized by PACE,” said Aruna Anand, head of Business Area Architecture and Networking, Continental North America. “The future of mobility is reliant on technology and because of our strong partnership with BMW Group, drivers now have more convenience when it comes to their personal mobility.”

CoSmA smart device-based access allows drivers to access and start their vehicle by using digital key on their smartphone. The hands-free access is the first available ultra-wideband based solution on the market today, setting the standard for vehicle access technology.

The technology was developed as a result of the cross-industry Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC), which brought together automotive companies, smartphone manufacturers and technology companies, such as Continental and BMW Group, to drive innovation by enhancing communication and integration between smartphones and vehicles.

The 28th annual PACE Awards were presented by Automotive News. The competition was open to suppliers that contribute products, processes, materials or services directly to the manufacture of cars or trucks. The Automotive News PACE Award is accepted around the world as the industry benchmark for innovation.

Continental earned an Automotive News PACE Award following an extensive review by an independent panel of judges including a comprehensive written application and a virtual site visit. 

Continental’s CoSmA digital vehicle access was also recognized as 2022 PACE Award finalist. For complete details of the Automotive News PACE Award, visit www.autonews.com/pace. To learn more about Continental’s award-winning technology, visit https://www.continental.com/.