Load Adaptive ESP from Bosch for light commercial vehicles

- Load Adaptive ESP takes account of vehicle weight and centre of gravity
- Series fitting in the new models of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Volkswagen Crafter

A load adaptive ESP safety system developed by Bosch is being fitted to two new light commercial vehicles this year - the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Volkswagen Crafter.
The system takes account of the vehicle's load and the centre of gravity -both significant variables for the function of ESP, particularly in vehicles carrying goods.

Depending on load, the total weight of light commercial vehicles can vary greatly and the position of the vehicle's centre of gravity can be altered by up to 25 percent longitudinally, and 50 percent vertically. Any change affects braking, traction, cornering, and the tendency to roll. In many situations, a fully loaded van with a high centre of gravity has a much greater tendency to oversteer or overturn than an empty one. The new Load Adaptive Control (LAC) function of this revised ESP system determines the distribution of the load and adapts the vehicle dynamics control to suit. In critical situations, therefore, the vehicle will stay more securely on track, reducing the risk of rolling.

LAC estimates the actual total weight of the vehicle by evaluating the way it reacts when accelerating or braking. The LAC system also determines characteristic speed, which is an important basic variable for the function of the ESP. This value identifies how the vehicle reacts under steering, and depends on the speed of the vehicle and on the position of the centre of gravity. As with other ESP systems, the first stage of this modified ESP intervention is a reduction in engine power and if this does not rectify the situation the system brakes individual wheels.

When transporting a heavy object with a high centre of gravity, there is increased risk of the vehicle overturning when cornering too tightly. This latest development of ESP stabilises the vehicle at an earlier stage. In addition, if there is a heavier load on the rear axle, the system can transfer a greater braking force to the road without locking the wheels by adjusting the distribution of braking force between the front and rear axles more effectively to the actual axle loads.
As an added benefit of the extended ESP system, there is a reduced servicing expense, as specific modifications of the braking at each wheel reduces wear on the brake system.

The new LAC system is suitable for any light commercial vehicle. It is adapted to the specific properties of each individual vehicle in close co-operation with the manufacturer.