Electronic traction system (ETS), task/benefits - GF42.35-P-0001-02A

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 42 other vehicles, including the 1999 Mercedes-Benz S600, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S500, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S420, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S320, and 1999 Mercedes-Benz CL600. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The "Electronic traction support" (ETS) is an automatic system for improving starting-off and acceleration capabilities on road surfaces with different adhesion. It replaces the "automatic locking differential" (ASD).

The system works via a brake intervention at the driven wheels. An engine intervention is not carried out.

The ABS and ETS basic components are combined in the ETS hydraulic unit.

The ABS and ETS switching circuits are likewise combined in the ETS electronics.

Brake moment control circuit

ABS prevents the wheels locking during braking and thus maintains steerability and vehicle stability during vehicle deceleration.

ETS prevents the drive wheels spinning on one side when starting off and accelerating and the drive wheels spinning briefly on both sides when cornering within specified speed ranges.

Advantages

Improves starting-off and acceleration capabilities on road surfaces with different adhesion due to increased traction.
Improves the cornering stability when the drive wheels on both side spin briefly.
A warning lamp signals if a wheel speed does not match the vehicle speed. It thus warns the driver that he has approached the physical driving limits of his vehicle.