Abstract: A method is described for producing composite multilayer materials which exhibit optimum properties throughout their entire service life. The composite multilayer material comprises a backing layer, a bearing metal layer, an intermediate layer and an electrodeposited overlay, which exhibits a hardness which increases continuously from its surface in the direction of the bearing metal layer. The method provides for the electrodeposition as overlay of a lead-free alloy with at least one hard and one soft component, the current density being modified within the range of from 0.3 to 20 A/dm2 during the deposition process and/or the temperature of the electroplating bath being modified within the range of from 15° C. to 80° C.