The idea here is that while at the wheel a fully-loaded SUV or minivan, drivers may not always react ideally for the situation when it comes time to stop in a hurry. Load distribution, varying surface traction and brake application rate are probably the last things on their minds. They'll just jam the brake pedal, full blast, and hope for the best.

But by applying a 'just-right' amount of stopping power to each wheel, EBD allows the vehicle to stop with more stability and confidence. It works in the background, and most drivers won't even notice its presence.

Electronic Brake Assist (EBA) or Panic Brake Assist can help boost stopping power and confidence if it detects that drivers are stopping in an emergency situation. It monitors the pressure and application rate of the brake pedal, or the time between accelerator pedal lift-off and brake-pedal application. Based on this information, the system boosts stopping power accordingly if it thinks you're in a panic. By applying maximum brake pressure sooner during a panic stop, EBA helps reduce the chances that you'll wind up in an accident, and it compensates for a tendency of most drivers not to apply enough brake pedal pressure early on in a stop.

Ford's Stability Control Plus Choice.

Of course, your brakes may be tied into the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system, which is one of the single largest improvements to vehicle safety in the recent past. VSC (which has many possible names and abbreviations) is used to keep the vehicle going confidently where the driver steers it.

By measuring the vehicles actual path against the path requested by the steering, the system can detect a skid occurring- even before the driver can. By automatically applying brakes or taking control of the throttle as needed, a skid can be cancelled out completely or kept to a minimum, depending on the situation. The premise here is that the computer can fine tune a driver's inputs, possibly saving a fender-bender. Another easy feature to take for granted, but an important one when it comes to peace of mind.

Of course, it's still up to drivers to be attentive and in control of their vehicles- though it's nice to know some added help is available. For maximum safety, be sure these features are fitted to your next ride.


Photo Credit : Porsche, Volvo, Ford