The rapid evolution of autonomous driving requires integrating brake automation into conventional hydraulic brakes: although reliable, they are limited by the dependence on driver brake pedal input, making them unsuitable for highly automated vehicles. In the long term, brake-by-wire technology could even eliminate the need for a physical brake pedal in the cabin, further supporting fully autonomous driving. This thesis faces the challenge of developing from scratch the hardware/software of a cost-effective electromechanical brake actuator for an autonomous vehicle (AV) demonstrator, owned by Bylogix srl, with the prospect of extending its application to other AVs. The proposed system enables direct pressure generation within the hydraulic circuit, allowing autonomous operation without major modifications to the existing braking system.