Czinger debuts topology-optimized BrakeNode on 21C Spyder
The single-piece aluminium alloy assembly combines caliper, upright, and hydraulic passages, marking a significant shift in high-performance brake engineering.
Czinger has launched the production debut of its new BrakeNode, an integrated brake assembly featuring an organic, topology-optimized design, on the 21C Spyder at Monterey Car Week. Manufactured using direct-metal laser-sintering, the single-piece aluminium alloy unit merges the caliper, upright, and hydraulic fluid passages into one structure. The component is standard equipment on the limited 30-unit 21C Spyder production run.
The BrakeNode reduces unsprung mass by up to 30 per cent compared to standard brake assemblies. On the 21C Spyder specifically, the saving is 6 lbs (2.7 kg). This figure is lower than the theoretical maximum because the vehicle’s previous suspension upright was already additively manufactured and class-leading. The design relies on topology optimization to remove material where it is not structurally necessary, resulting in a lighter yet equally performant component.
Czinger claims the BrakeNode offers superior serviceability over conventional assemblies. The design incorporates a bottom drain plug for hydraulic fluid, top-slotted pads, and outward-tilting rotors. These features eliminate the need to disconnect a caliper during brake changes, streamlining maintenance procedures for high-performance vehicles.
The technology traces its roots to Divergent 3D, established by founder Kevin Czinger a decade ago before he launched the car company. Divergent 3D, which later became Divergent Technology, focused on direct-metal laser-sintering and now supplies parts to the automotive and aerospace sectors. The current approach demonstrates a vertical integration strategy, using the 21C hybrid vehicle with its distinctive tandem seating to showcase the company’s manufacturing capabilities to potential industrial clients.
While Bugatti previously experimented with 3D-printed brake calipers, those components remained in the prototype stage. An early version of the BrakeNode was displayed at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2023, but this marks its first appearance in a production vehicle. The component is available as an option on the 21C HDF and 21C VMax models, and existing 21C owners can have the BrakeNode retrofitted to their vehicles.
