–
–
–
Mercedes-Benz is applying for a patent for a system that lowers car tires at lightning speed in emergencies. This is especially useful for electric cars. Inflated tires create much more friction. The new system will only be used if the brakes are damaged. The description of the patent states that this technology is intended for electric vehicles and hybrids, but can also be used in cars with diesel or gasoline engines.
The reason Mercedes thinks mainly of electric cars is that they don’t stop through the brake cable or the hydraulic system, but use Drive-by-Wire technology, just like in airplanes. In electric cars, the brakes are controlled by an electrical impulse, but if the Drive-by-Wire system (the computer executes commands, taking into account the readings of the sensors) is damaged, the consequences can be catastrophic.
Mercedes’ new technology is connected to all four wheels. After a gradual reduction in tire pressure, the maximum speed of the vehicle is limited and a warning system is activated, which informs the driver that something is wrong with the brakes.
– .
