General Motors has patented a system designed to predict and counteract traction loss by adjusting a vehicle's suspension and steering in real time. The technology aims to help drivers maintain control when a vehicle might pull in an unwanted direction.
The patent, US 12,780,181 B1, describes a system to address "traction steer," which occurs when differences in grip between tires cause unexpected pulling during acceleration or braking. GM's approach involves using adjustable ride height, active camber, and steer-by-wire technology to minimize these effects. The system would use a forward-facing camera, digital mapping data, an inertial measurement unit, and a steering rack force sensor to predict stability issues.
If a loss of stability is predicted, the system would make corrections before a traction-steer event. This could involve raising one side of the vehicle to transfer load to tires with more traction or raising the front suspension to shift load toward the rear axle. The system could make individual adjustments at each corner to balance available traction.
Additionally, the patent includes steer-by-wire technology, which allows for variable steering ratios and small steering adjustments to compensate for forces that could pull the vehicle off course. The camber system, which would allow for on-the-fly changes to tire lean, could also be used to achieve maximum grip during turns or straight-line driving. GM has not announced any production plans for this technology.