Dynamic Stability Control

The X5 is equipped with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) as standard equipment. DSC is a development of the DSC 8 Plus To make a distinction, this suspension control system is called "DSC Premium". System supplier for the DSC is Bosch. E60, E61, E63, E64 receive DSC Premium starting in 03/2007.

The control functions of the DSC have been optimized. The improvement was achieved by installing a return pump with 6 pistons as well as more powerful electronics. Compared to the previous model (E53) the E70 and E71 incorporate expanded functionality:

• Brake standby by pre-emptive application of brake pads in case of need (creation of low anticipatory brake pressure)
• "Dry braking" of the brake discs on wet roads with wipers switched on
• Detection of fading and increase in the brake pressure in the event of fading
• Drive-off assistant
• Cruise control with braking function (SA544)
• Parking brake (electromechanical and hydraulic parking brake)

Further road safety results from the combination with other systems:

• Yaw moment compensation with active steering (SA217)

DSC is a driving dynamics system that maintains driving stability. DSC optimizes:

• driving stability on driving off, accelerating, cornering as well as braking
• traction

The DSC also detects unstable driving conditions such as understeer or oversteer. DSC helps to maintain the vehicle on a safe course within the physical boundaries.

To do so, the DSC must be aware of the following dynamic measurement variables:

• The yaw rate as a measure for the rotary motion of the vehicle around the vertical axis
• Lateral acceleration
• Wheel speeds

In addition, the driver's choice is detected from the steering angle and the brake pressure the driver applies to the pedal. Furthermore, wheel speed sensors deliver information on the speed of the individual wheels. The available measured values are used to determine the actual condition in which the vehicle is moving at the moment. The actual condition is compared with nominal values calculated in the DSC control unit. If the current actual values deviate from the desired state, DSC becomes active and actively intervenes in the brake system or in the engine control, as the case may be.