McLaren Traction Technologies' Smart Differential Now Under Review
1 November 1999
McLaren Traction Technologies' Smart Differential Now Under Review by OEM and Tier 1 Clients
DETROIT--Nov. 1, 1999--Readied for Market
McLaren Traction Technolgies has now completed the build and initial testing of two versions of its next generation electronic Gerodisc technology. Called the "Smart Differential", this new version of the Gerodisc limited slip differential has been designed with an electronic interface for use in differentials, couplings and auxiliary axles.
The basic Gerodisc is a hydraulically actuated limited slip differential. Its internal mechanism contains pressure/flow and temperature-actuated control valving that define and regulate its operating characteristics.
The Gerodisc Limited Slip Differential Twin Disc and Coupling with Electronic Interface incorporate electrically activated valving that allow the system performance/torque transfer to be controlled by an external microcomputer. This is accomplished by control of hydraulic pressure within the unit.
The Gerodisc Limited Slip Differential with Electronic Control has on/off or progressive action, for infinitely variable torque transfer between 10% to 100%.
The advantages of "Smart Differential" technology are many. It is possible to precisely control the application of wheel torque to enhance vehicle handling. Torque transfer characteristics can be modified to accommodate vehicle conditions, including vehicle loading, tire pressure, driving conditions, operator preference, temperature conditions, etc. The unit may also be controlled to allow the use of mini-space tires.
Initial testing is underway by McLaren Traction Technologies' Tier 1 and OEM clients. Successful concept evaluations are continuing with both European and North American customers. Winter testing is to begin soon.
"These new developments with the "Smart Differential" represent the next technological breakthrough for McLaren Traction Technologies and offers the enabling technology that will allow vehicle dynamics engineers to program the application of torque on a wheel by wheel basis, using the on board computer, enhancing vehicle stability and antilock braking," said Louis J. Infante, Chief Operating Officer of McLaren Traction Technologies.
McLaren Traction Technologies, formerly known as ASHA corporation, located in Santa Barbara, California, is best known for its patented Gerodisc limited slip differential technologies,used in the Jeep Grand Cherokee produced in the U.S. and Europe.
McLaren Engines is a full service, ISO 9001 registered contract engineering company, with primary location in Livonia, Michigan.
This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are intended to be covered by the "safe harbor" created thereby. These statements include the plans and objectives of management for future operations, including plans and objectives. The forward-looking statements herein are based on current expectations that involve numerous risks and uncertainties. Assumptions relating to the foregoing involve judgements with respect to, among other things, future economic, competitive, and market conditions and future business decisions, all of which are difficult or impossible to predict accurately and many of which are beyond control of the company. Although the company believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements are reasonable, any one of the assumptions could be inaccurate and, therefore, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements included in this release will prove to be accurate.
McLaren Engines and McLaren Traction Technologies are divisions of McLaren Automotive Group. The stock is traded on the NASDAQ Small Cap Market .