With more than 100 years’ expertise in brake friction technology, Mintex’s established history has seen the company become a ‘go-to’ brand for marques, families and racing drivers worldwide.
Mintex has also aided some of the world’s most renowned vehicles – from the Ford Model T, which is recognised as the world’s first mass-produced motor vehicle, to supplying celebrated race vehicles that includes the Le Mans C/D-type Jaguar and Jack Brabham’s 1959 Formula One winning Cooper-Climax.
Endurance excellence
During the 1953 Le Mans race, Mintex provided the three racing Jaguar CType vehicles with a new pioneering and revolutionary disc brake technology. The Mintex disc brakes in a Dunlop caliper proved to be a huge success, helping Jaguar claim 1st, 2nd and 4th position. The Jaguar also became the first car in Le Mans history to average over 100mph throughout the race. This victory led to an era of continued dominance for Jaguar, and the new disc brake technology progressively became a standard fitment in all race and road vehicles from the late 1950s. This technology is still used today, helping modern day vehicles brake safely.
Battle stations
Mintex’s esteemed reputation doesn’t stop at motor vehicles however. During World War II’s Battle of Britain – which is noted by historians as a crucial turning point during the conflict – all aircraft used by the Allies, including Spitfire and Hurricane planes, were braked with Mintex Halo linings. Mintex’s involvement also continued on the ground, as its materials were fitted to many of Britain’s tanks, including the Churchill and the Cromwell as well as army webbing, parachute harnesses and fire hoses all woven on the company’s looms.
Again, thriving on its historic roots, Mintex was a main sponsor of the Battle of Britain Flypast. Held at Goodwood Aerodrome, the event saw over 30 aircraft, which consisted of Spitfires and Hurricanes, fly through the sky to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. Flying in formation, the Flypast was the largest gathering of World War II aircraft since 1945.
As times and automotive technology may have changed and evolved through the generations, the company’s commitment to safe braking has stood firm. With a strong heritage and many notable achievements since 1908, Mintex has consistently demonstrated a commitment to ongoing product development – a philosophy that still exists today.
Classic collection
With a large variety of other race wins, Mintex’s reputation within the classic car industry is stellar, and has led to the company creating bespoke brakes for the classic car market. However, as this proves time-consuming and comes at a high price for the end user, Mintex has recently launched its new Mintex Classic collection – a new range of brakes designed specifically for the classic car sector.
Previously unseen in the market, the new collection was fittingly announced at this year’s Goodwood Revival Festival ahead of its 2016 launch. The range builds on Mintex’s reputation in the classic racing industry and offers a complete service to the classic race market, providing classic cars with pads from the late 50s and shoes from earlier. The Classic range will be available for a number of cars including the AC Cobra, Ferrari 250GT, Aston Martin DB1 and Ford GT40, amongst many others.
