SKF pioneered the first hubs with integral electronic sensors, called "smart hubs". Hubs of today can evaluate noise and vibration levels, monitor wheel end temperature and measure vehicle load.

Some features to consider in the SKF VSM hub unit offerings are functionally integrated wheel bearing solutions, compactness, reduced weight, easier assembly and overall cost reductions.

The SKF Hub unit 3 used mainly for front wheel driven vehicles is a fully integrated wheel bearing system where both inner and outer rings have flanges. The inner ring flange has threaded holes and the other ring flange is bolted to the suspension so it becomes a structural element of the suspension. It comes with an integrated ABS sensor, offers maximised dynamic load capacity and is greased and sealed for life.

The hub unit 3 makes a major contribution to lowering weight and cost of the total suspension assembly and improves suspension design and reduces overall number of components, which is cost saving in assembly, handling and storage.