LucasVarity Signs Letter of Agreement with Thomson-CSF to Produce Advanced Vehicle System
15 September 1997
LucasVarity Signs Letter of Agreement with Thomson-CSF to Produce Advanced Vehicle System
BIRMINGHAM, England, Sept. 15 -- Strengthening its advanced
electronics further, the electronics business of LucasVarity's Electrical and
Electronic Systems Division has signed a Letter of Agreement with Thomson-CSF
Radars & Contre-Mesures, Paris, France, to jointly develop and produce a
technically advanced Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system targeted for
specification on future vehicles. Planned to appear on the next generation of
upper level cars, the ACC system adjusts the vehicle's speed automatically,
ensuring a constant headway is maintained between the vehicles. The constant
headway results in a smoother ride, thus reducing driver fatigue and stress,
both important factors affecting road safety.
Fundamental to the ACC system is the development of reliable radar headway
sensors and fast microprocessors. An advanced radar headway sensor, hidden
discretely behind the grille, detects obstacles ahead and enables the vehicle
to either travel at a set speed or adapt to the speed of the vehicle in front.
This is achieved by an integral on-board microcomputer which processes the
complex radar information, converting the electronic instructions into engine
speed or brake pressure, thus making the driver aware of the change in speed.
In this way, this unique software formula allows pedal free operation, which
increases driver comfort.
Already, the LucasVarity/Thomson-CSF system is leading the competition.
Independent test results show that the system is outperforming its nearest
rivals. "Comparative testing has proved that we have the highest performing
vehicle radar in Europe. The radar features Monolithic Microwave Integrated
Circuit technology which has the potential to offer lower costs and higher
reliability in volume production," said Mark Basten, manager of control
systems, Electrical and Electronic Systems, LucasVarity.
Combining the microwave radar capability of Thomson-CSF and the advanced
electronics expertise of LucasVarity, the joint collaboration on ACC is
considered an ideal match. "Our unique microwave radar expertise coupled with
the proven automotive electronics capability of LucasVarity, provide a high
performing yet affordable ACC solution to the automotive marketplace," said
Emmanuel Grave, general manager, Thomson-CSF Radars & Contre-Mesures. "This
diversification into the automotive market is an important element of our
business strategy. LucasVarity is an excellent partner for our debut in this
market," he added.
The importance of the partnership was echoed by Martyn Laycock, general
manager of Lucas Automotive Electronics, Electrical and Electronic Systems
Division, LucasVarity. "We have been working with Thomson-CSF for over a year
now. The signing of this agreement is a major milestone towards a joint
venture and serves to build our reputation as an advanced systems supplier,"
he said.
The ACC system technology has been installed on a number of customer
evaluation vehicles and has completed a series of demanding road tests.
LucasVarity's Electrical and Electronic Systems Division is a world class
supplier of advanced electronic controls, wiring and body electrical systems.
LucasVarity plc designs, manufactures and supplies advanced technology
systems, products and services in the world's automotive, diesel engine,
aftermarket and aerospace industries.
SOURCE LucasVarity