ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL
Description
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems were introduced in the mid 1990’s to improve vehicle stability at the limits of adhesion. By monitoring driver intent and actual vehicle motion with steer angle, yaw rate, lateral acceleration, and brake pressure sensors, the ESC electronics determine the differences between driver intent and actual vehicle response. If required, the electronics command brake actuation to adjust the brake pressures at the proper wheels and request engine torque adjustments to reduce the understeer or oversteer condition. In addition to the standard ABS and Traction Control features (which helps control wheel spin during acceleration), the ESC system provides improved stability, security and reduces the driver’s burden when unexpected road conditions or steering responses occur.
Technology/Benefits
Additional features include:
- PBA: Panic Brake Assist: senses a driver’s rapid brake apply and boosts brake pressures for improved deceleration.
- Engine Drag Control monitors wheel slip due to engine drag and requests engine torque increase to remove the slip.
- AWD TCS: All Wheel Drive Traction Control – which senses wheel spin and applies brake pressure coordinated with engine control to provide optimum traction for all wheel drivetrain configurations.
- ACC: Adaptive Cruise Control Braking works together with ACC systems to provide a desired level of deceleration (0.3g max) for correct following distances or stopping.
- Launch Assist retains driver brake pressures momentarily to assist the driver launching on grades.
Application
ESC systems are available for a wide variety of passenger vehicles form small cars to trucks and sport utility vehicles.