To keep the Ferrari F430 under control while powering out of turns, a new E-Diff electronic rear differential, originally developed for Ferrari’s F1 racing program, regulates the distribution of engine torque to the wheels to increase traction and limit oversteer. E-Diff joins an impressive roster of vehicle dynamics control systems on-board the new F430. Electronic suspension dampers automatically adjust to road conditions and can be specially calibrated for specific types of driving, Ferrari’s Automatic Slip Regulation (ASR) includes traction and stability control that can be programmed for varying driving circumstances, and the transmission includes software that allows the gearbox to operate in manual or automatic modes while also producing shift points appropriate to specific conditions. To control these various technologies, a rotary knob on the steering wheel selects from five different settings to tune the Ferrari F430 just the way the driver wants, or needs. The least aggressive mode is called Ice, which maintains softer suspension settings, fully active ASR, and operates the gearbox only in automatic mode while limiting engine revs. Wet mode retains the suspension and ASR settings from Ice, but allows for higher revs and manual gear changes. Sport is the normal dry road mode, with stiffer suspension calibration, faster shifts, and a more responsive throttle. Race mode disengages a portion of the ASR’s functionality, allowing for a wider performance envelope while maintaining a modicum of a safety net. Finally, ASR-off lets the driver take full control of the Ferrari F430, owning responsibility for every power slide, patch of rubber and dent in the aluminum body panels.
|
