Traction control system (TCS)

Vehicles equipped with engines with a displacement of more than 2.0 liters are equipped with the TCS traction control system (Traction-Control-System).

The TCS system is a logical extension of the anti-lock braking system ABS, which prevents the wheels from locking when braking, providing control and stability when braking.

TCS prevents wheel spin when starting off, hard acceleration and under adverse driving conditions, such as slippery roads on one side, when cornering, or when changing lanes unexpectedly, ensuring optimal driving stability with increased wheel traction.

TCS operates on two different levels. If one or both drive wheels begin to spin, the corresponding wheel/wheels are braked. Additionally, the drive torque on the wheels is also automatically reduced (throttle valve is closed).

ABS components such as wheel sensors and the hydraulic system are also used by the traction control system. In addition, only two additional control valves are needed in order to slightly open or close both diagonal circuits, if necessary.

Based on the signals from the wheel sensors, the speed of all four wheels is determined and processed in the common ABS and TCS control unit.

When one of the drive wheels begins to slip, pressure is increased in the corresponding wheel brake, and the wheel is automatically braked. If the pressure is increased to such a value that there is no further increase in the number of revolutions of the wheel, then it is kept constant. When the wheel begins to rotate with optimal slip, the pressure in the system is relieved. Thus, the wheel always remains in the area of optimal grip. Braking works in the same way as a locked differential. Simultaneous slippage of both wheels is regulated in the same way.

At speeds below 50 km/h, TCS operates as a combination of brake action and throttle cover control. At speeds above 50 km/h, the system operates purely on throttle control. When the TCS system is turned on, the control lamp on the instrument panel lights up, signaling to the driver that. that the vehicle is near the physical limit of wheel adhesion.