Winter driving technology

GREEN BAY - Technology in many newer vehicles was working overtime Wednesday trying to help keep the cars on the road.

It goes by many names: StabiliTrak, AdvanceTrac, or even ESP.
   
This computerized technology is found in news vehicles we use here at FOX 11.
    
On a day like today, it may have come in handy, whether you noticed it or not.

It was a slippery mess on many roads in Northeast Wisconsin.

“Conditions are slick and getting worse,” said Mike Haedt of Green Bay.

Tires were spinning, but traction control technology in many newer cars was hard at work.

“They system can actually start the vehicle off in second gear, applying more traction to the wheels, or allowing slower speed so you don't spin the tires or lose the traction as fast,” said Jason Hughes, an auto instructor at NWTC.

Hughes says the system works with the vehicle's anti-lock braking system.

“The wheels themselves are able to simultaneously either brake, or have one wheel brake at a time,” said Hughes.

Haedt has the system installed in his van. He says he's not quite sold on the idea.

“It works, it helps in a skid, the problem is, once you go sideways in a skid, it loses control of what it's doing,” he said.

Many drivers rely on four-wheel drive.

“The four-wheel drive system doesn't control the braking portion of the vehicle, but it does affect the takeoff,” said Hughes.

When it comes to stopping, Hughes says downshifting is an option.

“It uses the engine to help you brake in some situations.”

Hughes says anti-lock brakes with traction control will work.

“It does actually help you slow down as well, because it can brake to certain wheels, and using the ABS system, it will actually help you stop the vehicles a little bit faster,” said Hughes.

Good news for drivers in Winter Storm Denise.

“I think the technology has come a long ways over the years. I think the do a really good job making vehicles safe,” said Ron Kiefert of Crivitz.

Once again experts say the best programs work only as well as the drivers behind the wheel. Their best advice, get a good set of winter tires and slow down.