New ESR makes even non premium vehicles safer

Delphi Automotive’s electronically scanning radar (ESR) was recently added to the European Ford Focus line-up, enabling Adaptive Cruise Control with Forward Alert, and thus widening the range of vehicle segments offering advanced safety features. Ford claims that it is the first vehicle manufacturer to go beyond offering advanced features on only its premium vehicles, and extend the benefits of ESR to a broader market. ESR uses proven solid state technology to help automakers offer an adaptive cruise control system that not only enhances safety and convenience, but is affordable to more buyers. The system boasts long-range coverage that provides accurate range and speed data with effective object discrimination, enabling audible driver warnings when there is potential for a collision. The system also pre-charges the brakes so that they react more quickly when engaged. Earlier solutions made use of multiple- beam radars with mechanical scanning or several fixed, overlapping beams to attain the required view. Unlike mechanically scanning radars, electronically scanning radars have no moving parts, resulting in improved performance. Another benefit of the new system is its small size - the complete radar module, including electronics and mounting features, is just 173.7 x 90.2 x 49.2 millimetres. “By offering this innovative product on the Focus, a whole new segment of drivers will benefit from the safety advantages of Delphi’s ESR,” said Diedrich von Behr, Managing Director of Delphi’s Electronic Controls product business unit in Europe. Despite its promise to benefit a wider range of drivers however, South Africans will not be enjoying it anytime soon. The technology is at present only available in Europe, the US and Asia.

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