Delphi Advances Electric Brake-By-Wire Technology

TROY, Mich., May 6 -- Delphi Corp. announced today that it is continuing to advance development of the next generation of electric brake-by-wire technologies to make them commercially viable for future passenger vehicles.

The Ohio Department of Development, through a Technology Action Fund grant, awarded the collaborative team of Delphi and The Edison Materials Technology Center (EMTEC) $470,000 for the fiscal year 2002, and up to $500,000 for fiscal year 2003, for further development of brake-by-wire technology. The funding will be used to bridge the critical gap between early concepts of the technology and a cost competitive manufacturable design.

Together with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, in Dayton, Ohio, Delphi is actively pursuing the development of a drivable vehicle equipped with next generation brake-by-wire technology. The Technology Action Fund grant adds to the previously announced $1.1 million grant appropriated through Wright-Patterson Air Force Base with the support of the Miami Valley Economic Development Coalition (MVEDC), Wright Technology Network (WTN), and administered by the National Center of Industrial Competitiveness (NCIC) all in Dayton, Ohio.

Electric brake-by-wire systems will stop a vehicle using electromechanical actuators located at the wheels, which are commanded through electronic signals transmitted from the driver, versus the conventional hydraulic powered systems used today. The technology will be applied to vehicles with conventional powertrains, as well as vehicles with advanced power sources, like hybrid electric, fuel cell and advanced battery electric propulsion.

"This development project provides an opportunity to advance Delphi's brake-by-wire technology," said Jean Botti, chief technologist, Delphi Innovation Center. "In the future, brake-by-wire will be an important sub- system of Delphi's Unified Chassis Control (UCC) technology, which integrates two or more electronically controlled chassis systems, such as controlled steering and controlled suspension, for enhanced vehicle safety, performance and control."

Delphi has undertaken technology development work on electric brake modules, controls and smart actuators, as well as improved wiring and connection systems. These technologies will perform in the harsh environment that subjects them to extreme heat and vibration. EMTEC will provide program administration for the State of Ohio grant, as well as assist industrial and academic entities in developing the enabling technologies needed to develop brake-by-wire technology.

"The technology created as a result of this project will offer consumers increased safety and vehicle stability," said Frank Svet, president and CEO, EMTEC. "Additionally, by leveraging the region's technological strengths in automotive and aerospace, we have an exciting opportunity to increase Ohio's economic base, and possibly form spin-off entrepreneurial companies."

When available brake-by-wire will offer many advances, including improved brake response time and reduced stopping distances. It will be an enabling technology for active safety systems by providing control of each wheel independently, optimizing vehicle stability under most driving conditions.

In addition to increased safety, brake-by-wire technology also helps provide improved fuel efficiency by reducing braking system weight and eliminating brake drag, which also increases brake pad life. Brake-by-wire also eliminates hydraulic brake fluid, helping to protect the environment.

Delphi is also developing full x-by-wire vehicle systems that combine electronically controlled steering, braking, suspension and powertrain systems as part of its ongoing transformation from traditionally mechanical components.

For more information about Delphi Corporation, visit Delphi's Virtual Press Room at www.delphiauto.com/vpr .

For more information about EMTEC, visit www.emtech.org .