Did you know?: Electronic driving aidsElectronic driving aids get mixed reviews. In fact, I'd say they fuel one of the most polarizing automotive topics in the 21st Century. Some people hate them, claiming that they're just one step short of fully autonomous cars, while others are grateful that automakers put so much effort into building increasingly safe and sophisticated vehicles -- some even take care of those dreaded parallel parking manoeuvres!
These driving aids fall into the “active safety” category, which means they help prevent accidents (unlike “passive safety” devices, such as airbags, which step in during or after a collision only). Let's take a closer look... The level of sophistication involved usually depends on the make and model: More luxurious cars tend to feature more advanced safety systems. The names and acronyms may differ from one company to another, but their operation is pretty much the same. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) This system slows down each wheel and prevents them from locking up. Sensors monitor wheel rotation and adjust braking power for maximum tire grip. With the help of the electronic brake-force distributor (EBD), wheels with the most traction play a larger role to immobilize the vehicle. Manufacturers like Toyota have also developed a Smart Stop technology that automatically cuts engine power and allows the brakes to take precedence over the throttle when both pedals are pressed at the same time.
Traction control Under acceleration, sensors ensure each wheel retains traction. As soon as one starts to lose traction and spins excessively, the traction control system will automatically cut the amount of power being sent to that particular wheel.
Stability control This feature can be quite useful in corners and during avoidance manoeuvres. Stability control reduces engine power and applies brake force to the wheels that need it, steering the vehicle back into the driver's intended direction.
Blind spot monitor Proximity sensors monitor the areas drivers can't see with their mirrors. If you attempt to change lanes when another vehicle is in one of your blind spots, a light will flash on the corresponding mirror (left or right). Sometimes, there is even an auditory warning.
Lane departure warning Cameras detect lane markings on the road so that when a driver unintentionally starts to change lanes (without activating the turn signal), the steering wheel may vibrate and/or an audible alert will go off. This system actively prevents distractions and drowsiness behind the wheel while also teaching you to use your turn signal regularly.
Adaptive headlights Ensuring optimum visibility on the road, some headlights swivel when cornering, while others adjust the vertical angle of the beams. In both cases, this helps drivers see more of what lies ahead.
Of course, that's just a short list of available electronic aids. Other aids include:
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