Brembo, known for supplying braking systems for high-performance vehicles such as the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing, has launched its most robust caliper in history, the Brembo Boldika. Unlike models designed for track V8s, this new component was specifically developed to stop large and extremely powerful pickup trucks.
The Boldika was introduced on August 13th and is set to debut on the Chevrolet Silverado EV RST Stars and Steel Edition electric pickup in the United States, scheduled for 2026. This launch marks Brembo's entry into the large pickup truck segment.
According to Brembo, the Boldika is a fixed six-piston caliper capable of generating over 866 kgfm of braking torque. To put this figure in context, the most powerful diesel pickup sold in Brazil, the Ram 2500, has 148.7 kgfm of engine torque. Although the measurements are not directly comparable due to the differences between engine torque and wheel-acting braking torque, the difference in magnitude justifies the existence of the part, given that towing and off-road use require a very resistant braking system.
The name Boldika is not an internal code; Brembo clarifies that it combines the words 'bold' and 'like,' and instructs on its pronunciation: 'bol-DÍ-ka.' Structurally, the caliper body is made mostly of aluminum, but for the first time in a six-piston design, Brembo incorporated its cast iron central bridge concept, where the two aluminum halves are fastened with bolts. This construction aims to increase rigidity and provide greater force and stability during braking while maintaining a weight lower than that of an all-cast iron caliper. Despite having an enlarged pad area, the assembly can fit behind 20-inch wheels.
An important technical detail is Brembo Enesys technology, which solves the problem of residual drag from pads against the disc after braking—a phenomenon that consumes energy. This technology returns the pads to their resting position, which, according to the manufacturer, can contribute both to increased autonomy and extended pad life.
Stéphane Rolland, President and CEO of Brembo North America, stated that the new Brembo caliper constitutes a versatile solution for large SUVs and pickup trucks, regardless of the powertrain type, promising more precise braking with less incidence of fading. On the Silverado EV, the Boldika will come in Torch Red, although customization options exist. Brembo has not disclosed information regarding price or other potential uses. In the Brazilian market, the segment is contested by imported models such as the Ram 2500, Ram 3500, and Chevrolet Silverado, without confirmation that the part will be destined for them. In the United States, the version of the Silverado EV introducing this component has an approximate starting price of R$ 520,600 (US$ 99,945).
