Electronic stability control was one of the first and most effective safety systems aimed at preventing accidents rather than reducing the severity of injuries, like airbags or seat belts.
It is so effective that it has been fitted as standard on all new cars since 2014.
Anti-lock braking systems have been around for a long time and help you maintain maximum braking effort and full steering control in an emergency, without skidding. ESC relies on the capability of the anti-lock brakes.
ESC: How does it work?
Many accidents are the result of a loss of control in a corner taken too quickly or the need to take quick evasive action. Most drivers have difficulty recovering from a slide or spin.
With ESC, wheel sensors can detect the start of a skid and small amounts of braking can be automatically applied to each wheel to regain stability.
- The risk of an accident is considerably lower for cars equipped with electronic stability control.
- Electronic stability control still relies on the car’s base braking system and tires and is not a substitute for safe driving.
- It will not be able to prevent all accidents, especially if you drive too fast or in extreme conditions.
Vehicles equipped with electronic stability control are 25% less likely to be involved in a fatal crash than those without it.
- ESC can reduce accidents involving vehicle skidding or rollover by up to 59%.
- ESC provides additional benefits in adverse road conditions such as rainy or snowy weather.
ESC as standard equipment from 2014
Many automakers made ESC standard or optional before 2014. All have their own name or acronym, which can make comparing specifications difficult.
The ESC can be called by several names depending on the manufacturer, here are some of the most popular:
- ESP Electronic Stability Program
- ESC Electronic Stability Control
- VDC Vehicle Dynamic Control
- DSC Dynamic Stability Control
- VSA Vehicle Stability Assistance
- Active UPS stability control
- DSTC Dynamic Stability and Traction Control
