The European ECE R90 type-approval was created in 2001 and is defined in the European Union Directive 98/12 Annex 15. It is a set of compulsory regulations and safety standards which all brake pad and shoe manufacturers must comply with when producing friction brake components for passenger and commercial vehicles to be licensed for operation on European roads.

In short, each type of brake pad and shoe fitted in cars manufactured in the 21st century must meet certain requirements and pass certain tests carried out by certification bodies in order to be approved for sale in Europe.

The correct and effective operation of brakes translates into the safety of drivers in road traffic, which is why it is so important to meet all the restrictive guidelines. Obtaining a type-approval for each product requires appropriate, permanent marking on the elements of a pad or shoe itself, and analogous markings on the labels placed the boxes in which these products are placed.

All ABE brake pads and shoes for vehicles manufactured after the year 2000 have the required ECE R90 type-approval.