Italdesign is best known for creating vehicles such as the Nissan GT-R 50, but the company’s latest effort is focused on safety.
Since hydroplaning causes tens of thousands of accidents every year, Italdesign has teamed up with Bosch and Easyrain to test an innovative system that prevents vehicles from losing traction on wet roadways.
Created by Easyrain, the Aquaplaning Intelligent System (AIS) features sensors and software that have been designed to detect the onset of aquaplaning. When this occurs, a controlled jet of water is sprayed ahead of the front wheels.
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This jet of water helps to break up the “excessive layer of water on the asphalt that the tires cannot dissipate.” With the water out of the way, grip is restored and the vehicle is easier to control
In side-by-side comparisons, the impact is obvious as the Audi with AIS turned off loses grip shortly after hitting the puddle of water. With the system activated, the driver remains in control and the vehicle corners without fuss.
Easyrain says testing has shown the system improves vehicle performance by 35% in a straight line and 30% when cornering. These are promising results and the three companies will to continue working on the project.
While there’s no word on when the technology could show up in your next car, Easyrain noted the system has been designed for use in everything from mainstream vehicles to high-tech ones with electric powertrains or autonomous driving technology.
