Nissan Fuga to Help Drivers Make Smooth Turns

Last week Nissan was announcing its new air conditioning technology, that controls aroma and humidity through its “Forest AC” system, aiming to "alleviate boredom and stimulate the driver's brain," though it sounds more like a shampoo commercial if you ask us.

Now, the Japanese automaker decided to help drivers feel more comfortable while behind the wheel also by developing two advanced technologies (Distance Control Assist and Active Stability Assist) to help them make smooth turns by synchronizing the vehicle's navigation, engine, braking and steering systems.

The existing Distance Control Assist System is linked to the navigation map data, and this way the Navigation-Cooperative Intelligent Pedal can help the driver decelerate or brake as the car enters a curve based on real-time navigation information.

The first to get the distance control feature was the Nissan Fuga in December 2007. Now, this feature is combined with the car’s navigation system, resulting the Distance Control Assist system, which is scheduled to be launched with the new Fuga, set for release in Japan this fall.

Based on map information indicating a curve ahead, the system moves the accelerator pedal upward to assist the driver to release the accelerator pedal. Once the foot is lifted off the pedal, the system smoothly reduces vehicle speed by activating the brakes.

On the other hand, the Active Stability Assist, also scheduled to be released with the new Fuga, helps control vehicle yaw moment, deceleration and braking on curves depending on driver demand.

The system senses driving demands based on the driver's steering and acceleration/braking patterns, and individually controls the braking and application of torque to each of the four wheels to help smooth vehicle response. During braking, the system optimizes the distribution of force to each of the four wheels depending on the radius of the curve. This system is designed to make the driver feel more in control.