Many current automobile models especially in the higher end cars and SUVs, which maybe prone to rollover due to their top-heavy center of gravity have stability control mechanisms. By using the most advanced of these systems, which work in conjunction with anti-lock brake systems and undercarriage suspension systems. As a car starts to slide, lean or tip over on a curve or uneven pavement the system will slow one wheel or speed up another or tighten the suspension on one side.
Obviously in high-performance sports cars you would want this for excellent handling. Yet when you think of such a concept you would immediately consider it for your familys mini-van or your own SUV, as it could save your life or the lives of your loved ones. Thus you can see why such features are desired by consumers and why we are starting to see them more and more of these systems as standard features rather than extra option add-ons.
Indeed the European Auto Makers enjoy the increased sales on their top of the line vehicles, but so too have American Auto Makers enjoyed knowing that consumers will pay extra for this and it improves their chances for not ending up with class action lawsuits for finished products liability as well. And we all remember the Ford Explorer rollover lawsuits and the Firestone Tire issues a few years back.
I propose that we integrate Automatic Stability Control Sensor Systems for Trucks and use a net-centric approach to solving the rollover problems, as we are seeing about 4,000 to 6,000 tractor trailer rigs on their sides each year as reported by the NTSB, National Transportation Safety Board. So think on this in 2006.
Lance Winslow
