Differentially drivable vehicle having parking mode determination and turning radius reduction

摘要

An automotive vehicle 10 includes a controller (26 see fig 3) for determining whether the vehicle 10 is in a parking mode. If a condition such as a low speed or a high steering angle indicates that the parking mode is present, the controller (26) typically controls positive torque amounts to be applied to wheels on respective sides of the vehicle 10, so that modified steering occurs, producing a reduced turning radius. The torque amounts may be applied via a plurality of electric drive motors or using active differentials. The controller (26) may monitor a steering wheel angle, steering wheel direction and steering wheel angular rate.