Delphi's QUADRASTEER(TM) Showcased on Army's 'James Bond-Like' Vehicle At 2001 SAE World Congress

    DETROIT, March 5 The National Automotive Center (NAC) is
looking to automotive suppliers, such as Delphi Automotive Systems
, to help modernize and equip its fleet with state-of-the-art
technologies to become more responsive, deployable and agile in "other than
war" encounters.  The NAC will showcase one of these "James Bond-like
vehicles," the SmarTruck, at the 2001 SAE World Congress and Exhibition
March 5-8, in Detroit.
    (Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20001019/DELPHIAS )
    The SmarTruck will feature QUADRASTEER(TM) by Delphi, a unique four-wheel
steering system designed for full-size vehicles including long-bed and
extended cab pickup trucks, vans and sport utility vehicles.  It can also be
used on similar sized military vehicles.
    QUADRASTEER combines the performance capabilities of full-size vehicles
with the turning radius and maneuverability of a small car, making it an ideal
technology for military applications.  Tight turns, evasive maneuvers and off-
road driving become much easier enabling a more agile military deployment.
Steering with all four wheels dramatically improves stability, handling and
control at higher speeds for a more comfortable driving experience.  The
enhanced stability and maneuverability makes towing and trailering simpler at
high and low speeds.
    The system combines conventional front-wheel steering with an electrically
powered rear-wheel steering system and has four main components -- a front-
wheel position sensor, steerable solid hypoid rear axle, electric motor-driven
actuator, and a control unit.  Handwheel position and vehicle speed sensors
continuously report data to the control unit, which in turn determines the
appropriate angle of the rear wheels.  Algorithms are then used to determine
the correct phase of operation.
    QUADRASTEER operates in three principal phases: negative, neutral, and
positive.  At lower speeds, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction of
the front wheels.  This is the negative phase.  At moderate speeds, the rear
wheels remain straight or neutral.  At higher speeds, the rear wheels are in
the positive phase, turning in the same direction as the front wheels.
    "The effect that QUADRASTEER has on maneuvering a full-size vehicle is
remarkable.  We are pleased to be working with the military to investigate the
opportunities and merits of applying passenger car and light-duty automotive
applications to military vehicles," said Larry Tomczak, director of
engineering at Delphi Automotive Systems' steering division.  "Delphi's work
with the NAC demonstrates our commitment to automotive and non-automotive
markets."
    The SmarTruck is designed to provide the Army a vehicle platform to test,
integrate and showcase cutting-edge technologies.  This allows the Army to
insert the latest communication, situational awareness and soldier safety
technologies into its tactical wheeled vehicles.  The NAC has developed the
vehicle in partnership with Integrated Concept & Research Corporation (ICRC),
MSX International, Delphi Automotive Systems, Audiovox, Raytheon and other
suppliers.
    For more information about Delphi Automotive Systems, visit Delphi's
Virtual Press Room at http://www.delphiauto.com/vpr .

 SOURCE  Delphi Automotive Systems