Light Commercial Vehicles – Challenges for Vehicle Stability Control

The electronic stability program (ESP) is increasingly finding acceptance in vans and light commercial vehicles (LCV). Nearly all current models, whose gross vehicle weight is generally between 2.8 and 7.5 metric tons, are now available with this active safety system, either as an option or even as standard equipment. Many studies have now confirmed that ESP can prevent a vehicle from skidding or rolling over in nearly all driving situations [1, 2]. This is particularly important in the case of vans, since their design and their use leave them with tighter safety margins. Depending on load, the center of gravity shifts, and consequently the risk of rollover may increase. Bosch has developed a system specifically for light commercial vehicles that automatically adapts its control mechanisms to the current situation.