Bendix Celebrates 100 years of Innovation

Delivering superior brake pads and components for a century, Bendix, a leading name in automotive brake manufacturing, is celebrating 100 years of innovation and technology-driven manufacturing that has set new standards in driver safety, performance, and comfort.

Originally founded as Mintex in 1924, the company aimed to meet the needs of motorists worldwide. Located in Ballarat, the modest manufacturing plant initially employed just 30 people. Shortly after, it was acquired by the U.S. Company Bendix Corporation, forming Bendix Mintex.

Throughout the 1970s, Bendix Mintex developed new and innovative manufacturing processes for producing disc brake pads, leading to the export of Australian technology overseas. These developments continued as the company focused on new friction materials to enhance the performance and competitive pricing of its brake pads.

Advanced technological developments in metal presses resulted in higher quality backing plates to match the new friction materials. In 1993, the company’s dedication to innovation and quality earned Bendix Mintex the title of Manufacturer of the Year by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association.

The late 1990s saw a strong emphasis on reducing brake pad noise for smoother and quieter braking, thanks to significant research and development and a state-of-the-art sound analysis laboratory.

In line with its growth in Australia and overseas markets, the company rebranded to FMP Group (Australia) Pty Ltd (Friction Materials Pacific) in 2002. By 2005, Bendix introduced General CT plus Heavy Duty brake pads with a revolutionary Titanium Stripe, providing instant friction and sure stopping power from the first drive out of the workshop.

The company’s commitment to quality saw it achieve the ultimate level of quality accreditation in 2006 for OEM supply to car manufacturers, making Bendix a key supplier to the automotive industry. In 2007, high-performance Street-Road-Track brake pads were introduced, meeting the needs of serious drivers with powerful vehicles.

Recognition continued in 2008 with Bendix’s induction into the prestigious Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame. Innovation persisted with the launch of premium quality brake shoes in 2009 and the 2010 release of ‘STEALTH Advanced Technology’ brake pads, setting new standards in smooth, quiet braking.

2011 marked the expansion of Bendix’s ancillary range of brake products, including brake lube, brake fluids, and brake wear sensors. Workshops benefited from these innovations with the development of the Bendix Brake Identifier App, a mobile tool reducing the time needed to find the correct replacement part during a job.

Significant investment in the Ballarat plant included the commissioning of a $3.5 million IAG moulding press as part of an $8.8 million upgrade to deliver high-tech products for the Asia Pacific region.

As Bendix celebrates 100 years, it also marks the availability of its advanced oil filter, brake fluid, and wheel cylinder in the Philippines, further enhancing its commitment to quality and performance in the region.