Every modern car is equipped with it: ABS, or anti-lock braking system. The system prevents the wheels from locking up during braking and in principle shortens the braking distance while the vehicle remains steerable. However, this isn't always the case on very slippery or wet roads.
A brief history
ABS is a relatively new concept in cars, but the idea dates back to 1908. In 1920 it was applied in aviation, and in the 1950s the (mechanical) braking system found its way into the automotive industry. In the late 1960s the first electronic ABS system was developed. Not for a car, but for a supersonic aircraft: the Concorde. In the 1970s, American car manufacturers began to apply it in their cars, and in the 1980s, European manufacturers followed. Nowadays, ABS is standard in every new car and even legally required within the EU.
Working ABS
The ABS system engages when braking too hard. ABS temporarily reduces braking power, thus preventing the wheels from locking up and the car from skidding and becoming uncontrollable. Simply put, rolling wheels brake more effectively than locked tyres on a road surface.
The repeated reduction and increase of braking force by ABS is experienced by the driver as a vibration of the brake pedal. ABS is in fact a form of pulse braking. Pulse braking involves rapidly pressing and releasing the brake pedal in quick succession.
Driver and ABS
In effect, ABS takes over the braking from the driver. Many drivers find this unpleasant and are even startled by it when they first experience it. An intuitive reaction is to release the brake pedal and brake again, in the hope that the braking force will recover. You should not do that. What you should do is ‘simply’ keep braking as hard as possible and let the system do its work.
What are your experiences with ABS and other electronic driver assistance systems? Let our followers know in a comment! Safe and Car hire in Geleen in an environment you do at Adrem Car Rental.
