Quote:
Originally Posted by Bubbles
According to some very well placed sources
|
BMW themselves said so.
In order to satisfy that demand on the part of performance-oriented spirited drivers, as of
March 2008 the 135i will be fitted with the NEW DSC function program that simulates
the action of a mechanical differential lock. The system uses the typical BMW open type
differential and is comprised solely of an electronic intervention program inside the DSC.
When the vehicle is in tight bend the DSC applies the brakes the spinning (inside) driving
wheel, the torque is then transmitted to the outside wheel which is carrying most of the
load, optimizing power and maintaining vehicle speed trough the corner. The new function
implemented in the DSC control module is thus, in effect, DTC without modulation
of engine output. The DSC and DTC functions are unaffected by it.
In comparison with a mechanical differential lock, the advantage of the new DSC program
function is more than just the fact that it is substantially more cost effective. Whereas a
mechanical differential lock is permanently active, this DSC Function only comes into
action only when required and if the DSC/DTC is switched off. Nor does it add to the
vehicle weight and fuel consumption.
Furthermore, the function does not affect handling stability in DSC or DTC mode and the
familiar understeer tendency produced by mechanical differential locks is also avoided.
The feature will also be introduced on BMW 3 Series models with higher performance
engines at a later date.