Third-gen Ford Focus will get torque vectoring VSC
To go on sale in the US early this year, the third generation Ford Focus will be available with a brand new vehicle constancy control (VSC) system that will use torque vectoring to develop handling. Apparently, inspiration came from downhill skiing and snowboarding techniques! “The new Focus is the first North American Ford vehicle to offer torque vectoring control. This is a skill that has been offered on high-end sports cars, yet Ford is making it standard on their new small car,” said Rick Bolt, program manager for the Focus.
He added that torque vectoring will be included across the range. “Torque vectoring control elevates the dynamic capability of the entire Focus model range, from an S series sedan through a Titanium Sport Package hatchback.” The principle is simple. The system will apply minor braking on the inside wheel when the Ford Focus takes a bend; this prevents slippage as it then travels a shorter distance while doing the same speed as the outer wheel. It’s not very different from what a mechanical limited-slip differential does, but this is a cheaper solution. Another inexpensive new car that has torque vectoring is the Nissan Juke with All-Mode 4X4-i.