Ride and Handling Optimization: Overview

Ride and Handling Optimization

OVERVIEW
The Terrain Response system allows the driver to select a program which aims to provide the optimum settings for traction and performance for the prevailing terrain conditions. The system cannot be switched off. The default program 'special programs off' is an active program that covers all general driving conditions. Three specific terrain programs are selectable to cover all terrain surfaces. Vehicles fitted with the adaptive dynamics suspension also include a special dynamic program.
The system is controlled by a Terrain Response switchpack. The Terrain Response switchpack allows the selection of one of the following five programs:
- Special programs off.
- Grass/Gravel/Snow.
- Mud/Ruts.
- Sand.
- Dynamic (vehicles with adaptive dynamics suspension only).
The instrument cluster displays the selected program in the message center.
The Terrain Response system uses a combination of a number of vehicle sub-systems to achieve the required vehicle characteristics for the terrain selected. The following sub-systems are used in the Terrain Response system:
- EMS (engine management system). For additional information, refer to Electronic Engine Controls
For additional information, refer to Electronic Engine Controls Locations
- Automatic transmission (where fitted). For additional information, refer to External Controls Component Locations
- Active on-demand coupling. For additional information, refer to: Rear Drive Axle/Differential (205-02, Description and Operation).
- Brake system. For additional information, refer to Anti-Lock Control - Traction Control Locations
- The adaptive dynamics system (where fitted). For additional information, refer to Vehicle Dynamic Suspension Locations
- The power steering system. For additional information, refer to Power Steering Locations
The Terrain Response switchpack also contains the Terrain Response control module. The control module detects the selection made on the switchpack and transmits a signal on the high speed CAN (controller area network) bus, which is received by each of the sub-system control modules. Each of the affected control modules contain software which applies the correct operating parameters to their controlled system for the Terrain Response program selection made. They also provide feedback for the selected program so that the Terrain Response control module can check that all systems have changed to the correct operating parameters.
Information is displayed in the instrument cluster message center which informs the driver of improvements which can be made to the vehicle operating parameters to optimize the vehicle for the prevailing conditions.
Inexperienced off-road drivers may benefit from the automatic assistance of the Terrain Response system and the driver information. Experienced off-road drivers can select the specific programs for extreme conditions to access control over the vehicle systems (for example; accelerator pedal maps, transmission shift maps, traction settings) which are not accessible on vehicles without Terrain Response.

Stop/Start Vehicles
Activation of the Terrain Response special programs will deactivate the stop/start system. However, if a special program is selected while the engine is shutdown in a stop/start cycle, the engine will automatically restart. During the restart sequence, if the stop/start system detects that the driver may not be present, for example either the driver safety belt or door is unlatched, the engine will not restart. The stop/start system will then display the message Restart Required Press Clutch in the message center. For additional information, refer to Starting System .