By now, we've already been immersed in the traction control technology that is now prevalent within the auto industry. In this episode of Mercedes USA->ke187's AMG->ke187 Driving Academy Performance Series, professional driver and AMG Driving Academy instructor, Nick Kunewalder, introduces us to ESP - Electronic Stability Program - technology and the three corresponding advanced traction control settings: On, Sport, and Off.

Each setting has a different effect on the handling of the car and Kunewalder. When the ESP is turned 'on', the computer doesn't allow the car to break a whole lot of traction; at a certain point in this set-up, the computer will instantaneously take over by refusing to let the car slide no matter what the driver does.

The 'Sport' mode allows the driver to push the car a little harder with a much later computer assistance compared to when the 'ESP' is turned on. There might be a little rotation, but once the computer recognizes it, it begins to add that stability program.

Lastly, when the ESP is completely disabled, the car is completely at the mercy of the driver with no electronic traction assistance whatsoever.

All three have their pros and cons unique to themselves. It's just a matter of figuring out what set-up applies best to what situation.

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