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Why Are Brake Telematics So Tough for Class 8 Trucks?

Brakes are the final frontier for telematics on Class 8 trucks. But Hendrickson is close to a breakthrough that could change the game in getting real-time brake system information back to fleets.

January 30, 2026

Brakes are the final frontier for telematics on Class 8 trucks.

But Hendrickson Vehicle Systems is close to a breakthrough that may change the game when it comes to getting real-time brake system information back to fleets.

HDT talked to Jeff Moris, director, axle, brake and wheel-end systems at Hendrickson to find out more about how these new telematics technology will work.

#HDTTalksTrucking#Class8trucks#truckingsafety#truckbrakes

Key takeaways:

• Brakes are a harsh environment for electronics, which is why they have been a “last frontier” for heavy-duty telematics.
• The bigger brake telematic opportunity for fleets may be with trailers, not tractors.
• Disc brakes already have a head start on sensing, including basic wear sensors and more advanced continuous wear monitoring.
• The real challenge is bringing meaningful sensing to drum brakes, because drum brakes still dominate U.S. trailers.
• Getting the data to the right person fast is as important as sensing it.