Throttle response
Throttle response or vehicle responsiveness is a measure of how quickly a vehicle's prime mover, such as an internal combustion engine, can increase its power output in response to a driver's request for acceleration, such as a pedal being pressed. Throttles are not used in diesel engines, but the term throttle is often used to refer to any input that modulates the power output of a vehicle's prime mover. Throttle response is often confused with better power, but throttle response is rather related to time taken for change in power level.[1]
In general, gasoline/petrol engines exhibit better throttle response over diesel engines.[citation needed] Also, naturally aspirated gasoline engines have better responsiveness than supercharged or turbocharged engines,[citation needed] for engines with similar peak power outputs. Several tuning factors can have an effect on the responsiveness of an engine.[2][3]
Throttle response in manual cars can be enhanced by dropping to a lower gear (e.g. 5th to 4th) before atttempting to accelerate. This is often used in smaller cars to aid in overtaking.
Most new cars are equipped with a drive-by-wire system. Throttle response is often affected badly by this and drivers feel a noticeable delay when quickly changing the position of the gas pedal.[citation needed]
Application of throttle response
Throttle response comes into play in the following situations:
- Overtaking
After following a vehicle or going side by side, there is a need for sudden increase in power to execute a successful overtaking. This is why throttle response plays a crucial role in racing.
- Coming out of a corner
While entering a corner, the requested power output is reduced since the vehicle is coasting or braking. After passing the corner, the driver will suddenly request more power to accelerate back to normal speeds. Fast throttle response allows a vehicle to regain its speed quickly after cornering.
- Driving pleasure
Throttle response plays a major role in driving pleasure, as this gives the driver more control over the vehicle's acceleration.
See also
Notes and references
- ^ "DIY: Free and Easy 2005+ Mustang Throttle Response Modification". autobglo.com. Auto B Glo. 2007-11-14. Retrieved 2008-01-19.
{{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter:|coauthors=(help) - ^ Bohacz, Ray. "Eliminate Engine Detonation Without Losing Power and Throttle Response". highperformancepontiac.com. Retrieved 2008-01-19.
{{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter:|coauthors=(help) - ^ Kowatari, T. "Throttle-control algorithm for improving engine response based on air-intake model and throttle-response model". IEEE Xplore. IEEE. Retrieved 2008-01-19.
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