The temperature distribution and thermal stress distribution of brake discs under emergency braking conditions were studied using the finite element method (FEM). The discs were of three types: those made of functionally graded SiCp/Zl104 composite materials, of uniform (20% volume) SiCp/Zl104 composite materials, and of compacted graphite iron, respectively. The rule of mixtures of dualphase material and the discretization of the material composition distribution were applied to estimate the material properties of functionally graded composite materials. The results show that the temperature and thermal stress of brake discs made of graded SiCp/Zl104 composite are the lowest among the three types studied, and the distribution of temperature and thermal stress of this brake disc type is more uniform than the others. Furthermore, brake discs made of functionally graded SiCp/Zl104 composite can reduce vehicle weight and increase wear resistance capacity. The results provide a theoretical foundation for fabricating brake discs made of graded SiCp/Al composite material.