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Today's active driving-safety systems are based on the development of ABS technology. In 1978 Bosch was the
first company in the world to introduce the ABS Antilock
Braking System with electronic control to the market. Critical driving situations may arise not only during braking but also whenever strong longitudinal forces have to be transferred
to the contact surface between tire and ground: when driving
off and accelerating, particularly on slippery road surfaces,
on steep inclines and when cornering.
The Traction Control System (TCS) based on ABS technology was launched onto the market in 1986. Thanks to an additional interface between engine management and ABS, TCS prevents the wheels from spinning by reducing the drive torque at each driven wheel. On smooth ground the car can thus accelerate better, and even on bends which are passed through too fast, the system increases directional stability by reducing the engine power. TCS is thus a logical extension of ABS, but unlike the latter goes into action during acceleration.
The Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) combines the functions of ABS and TCS, but has an additional "yawing-moment control" function – this function prevents the vehicle from skidding. It was developed to help drivers maintain control of their vehicles in the event of sudden maneuvers such as rapid full-lock steering and countersteering, sudden lane changing or avoiding obstacles.
In 1995 Bosch was again the first company to launch the Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) onto the market as the most comprehensive braking control system at that time. It improves vehicle stability not only during braking and acceleration, but also in all driving situations. When the vehicle threatens to skid, ESP® reduces the engine power output and also brakes individual wheels.
The active driving-safety systems ABS, TCS and ESP® improve driving safety significantly.
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Bosch ESPerience |
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More information on the Electronic Stability Program ESP® from Bosch can be found on the ESP® internet page. |
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 Further information |
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How ABS works
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