Basic linear theory of handling and stability of automobiles

The directional response and stability characteristics of the motor vehicle are examined by considering the automobile to be a mechanical system which is described by linear differential equations with constant coefficients. The directional response behaviour and stability characteristics of the motor vehicle are important performance modes of vehicle operation often equated with handling. The objective of this analysis is to show how steady state turning behaviour depends upon various vehicle design factors and motion variables. A family of characteristic handling diagrams are obtained for linear and non-linear ranges of tyre operation. The handling diagrams show the dependence of the vehicle's directional behaviour upon the tyre lateral force characteristics, the front and rear load distributions, and the vehicle's forward speed. Information obtained from this study of vehicle response to steering control gives insight into the turning behaviour of a real vehicle and is useful for safety objectives.