05 Feb 07
A component of modern ABS systems. Evens out brake pressure and spreads it between the wheels, improving your chances of avoiding a skid.
The electronic brain or black box that keeps the engine running smoothly, by monitoring its behaviour and controlling factors such as air/fuel flow and ignition timing.
A button, usually in the centre console, which activates the parking brake electronically, rather than a handle that uses hydraulics. Some systems also release automatically when you hit the throttle.
An electronic system, usually integrated into the ABS, which monitors yaw (the angle and direction in which the vehicle is travelling) and the steering wheel angle to assess stability. If it detects that the car is skidding or becoming unstable, it then cuts the throttle or applies braking pressure to individual wheels to re-establish control. ESP is particularly important in vehicles with a high centre of gravity, such as 4x4s, and there are calls to make it compulsory-fit. [See also: Traction control]
Ethanol is touted by some as a fuel of the future. It's a biofuel synthesised from organic sources, thus cancelling out carbon dioxide emissions, cutting down on fossil-fuel use and dependency on Middle Eastern oil (hence the US interest). Can be used in petrol engines with little modification. E85 is a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline that demands even fewer mods.
The European New Car Assessment Programme. An independent scheme that assesses the safety of every new car by carrying out simulated crashes in a laboratory. Ratings range from one to five stars, with five stars for overall crash protection the best result. Separate ratings out of four stars for child protection (using a manufacturer-supplied child seat) and pedestrian protection have also been introduced.
