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Electronic Stability Control (ESC) helps drivers to avoid crashes by reducing the
danger of skidding, or losing control as a result of over-steering. ESC becomes
active when a driver loses control of their car. It uses computer controlled
technology to apply individual brakes and help bring the car safely back on track,
without the danger of fish-tailing.
Why do I need it?
Australian research shows that ESC reduces the risk of:
No other active safety device has such potential to reduce single car crashes.
Not all ESC systems are identical. The hardware is similar, but there are variations in
how ESC systems are programmed to respond once loss of control is detected.
Naturally, the degree of effectiveness of ESC is dependent upon the amount of
traction between the road and the car. Therefore on a car with old, worn or
inappropriate tyres (eg: non winter tyres on ice and snow), ESC will be less effective
than on a car with new tyres or tyres specific to a road environmental condition.
How popular is ESC?
ESC technology is being adopted rapidly by Australian manufacturers and importers
particularly as Victoria has mandated that all new cars registered from January
2011 must be fitted with ESC. This mandate came into effect almost one year
ahead of the rest of Australia and also Europe and America. Fitment of ESC has
grown enormously since 2004, with the fitment rate increasing from around 12% in
2004 to 76% in early 2011. The highest rate of ESC fitment is in Sweden with a
fitment rate of around 96%. Before you choose your next car, be sure to look for
models with ESC.
Is ESC different to Antilock Braking (ABS) and Traction Control?
ABS and Traction control are integral components of an ESC system. Whilst every
car with ESC has ABS and Traction Control, those with ABS and Traction control do
not necessarily have ESC. ABS and Traction Control only work in the driving
(longitudinal) direction. ESC can help drivers to cope with sideways (lateral)
movements which create instability. Unlike ABS and Traction Control, ESC is a
holistic system that can control a cars entire movements.
Do I need training to drive a car with ESC?
No. Those who manufacture these systems say that ESC supports the driver but
does not require changes to skill levels or driving styles.
Are there different names for ESC?
Yes. Some of the names that we know about in Australia are:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) - Ford, FPV, BMW, Mazda, Land Rover, Jaguar