Ford Focus gets torque vectoring control for better handling

The new torque vectoring control system will be part of the Focus' vehicle stability control system, and Ford says the system improves the car's handling further. "The new Focus is the first North American Ford vehicle to offer torque vectoring control", said Rick Bolt, program manager for the Ford Focus. "This is a technology that has been offered on high-end sports cars, yet Ford is making it standard on their new small car".

How the system works is that it will apply a slight braking force to the driven wheel facing the inside of a corner, thus preventing the slippage due to the fact that it travels a shorter distance, while doing the same number of rotations as the outside wheel.

The system is similar to a limited slip differential, without the brake pad wear, and is cheaper than a mechanical differential and offers safety for ordinary drivers. "Torque vectoring control elevates the dynamic capability of the entire Focus model range, from an S series sedan through a Titanium Sport Package hatchback," said Bolt.