Electronic Stability Control
ESC utilizes pre-existing traction control and antilock braking (ABS) systems to accomplish increased stability. According to Edmunds.com,
[S]tability control incorporates everything ABS and traction control do plus a yaw-sensing feature that works to increase traction during potential side-skidding situations. In other words, whereas both ABS and traction control work on the longitudinal (front-to-back) axis of the vehicle, stability control operates on the lateral (side-to-side) axis. Bosch’s Electronic Stability Program (ESP), the first such system on the market, began appearing in 1995 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedans. In addition to discrete electrical components, ceramic sensors and solenoid valves, stability control systems typically utilize wheel-speed sensors, steering-angle sensors and a hydraulic modulator. The key component is, however, something called a rotational speed sensor (also known as a yaw-rate sensor). Yaw can be described as “the movement of an object turning on its vertical axis.”The yaw-rate sensor determines how far off-axis a car is “tilting” in a turn. This information is then fed into a microcomputer that correlates the data with wheel speed, steering angle and accelerator position, and, if the system senses too much yaw, the appropriate braking force is applied.
ESC technology has the potential to drastically cut the number of accidents on the road. Not only is ESC effective at helping drivers maintain control in normal road conditions, it is also effective in inclement driving conditions. The video below shows how effective it can be in icy conditions.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3m24bjkfg0&hl=en&fs=1&border=1]
ESC, without a doubt, is extremely effective technology for keeping vehicles headed in the driver’s intended direction. This technology will continue to save lives for many years. When purchasing a new car or considering an automotive defect case involving stability allegations, the availabiltiy of ESC is very important. NHTSA has provided information regarding the availability of ESC for 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2009 model year vehicles on the NHTSA website.
For more information on ESC, visit safercar.gov’s informational page on ESC.
