ESC: The Law by 2012 - April 9th, 2007
The Department of Transportation has made it official. All vehicles sold in the United States must have electronic stability control by 2012. The technology, which helps to prevent rollovers and keeps you in control on slippery roads or in emergency tight spots is expected to:
- Save from 5,300 to 9,600 lives annually.
- Prevent between 168,000 to 238,000 injuries.
The cost of ESC per vehicle is estimated at around $111 if the model already has anti-lock brakes.
All manufacturers will begin equipping passenger vehicles with ESC for the 2009 model year and the technology must be a standard feature by 2012. The phased in transition breaks down to the requirement for:
- 55% of vehicles with ESC by 2009
- 75% by 2010
- 95% by 2011
- ESC mandatory by 2012.
Annually, the change over will cost the auto industry approximately $985 million, but many auto makers, including GM, Ford, and Toyota have already said they’ll beat the deadlines.
ESC, which has been around since 1995, is already available in numerous models although it is marketed under different names including:
- Electronic Stabilization/Stability Program/Control: Audi, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Honda, Hyundai, Volkswagen
- Vehicle Stability Assist: Acura
- Vehicle Dynamic Control: Hyundai, Infiniti
- Dynamic Stability Control: BMW
- AdvanceTrac: Ford, Lincoln (AdvanceTrak)
- StabiliTrak: Buick
If you’re not sure what you’re reading is indeed ESC, ask. While it may add a few dollars to your future car purchase, it will also add some years to your life expectancy. And cheer up, five years from now you won’t have to worry about it because ESC will be a standard feature.
Posted on April 9th, 2007 by Shorty
Filed under: technology |
Leave a Reply