Anti-Schlinger systems undergo testing by ADAC, yet not everyone is fully convinced.
Anti-Sway Mechanisms also Ensure Trailer Combinations Stay on Course in Tough Driving Conditions, but Their Potency Varies. The ADAC Has Evaluated Various Stabilization Systems.
The number of registered trailers in Germany is climbing steadily, with 8.4 million trailers now registered, including 756,000 caravans, as reported by the ADAC. Driving a trailer can be demanding, particularly for those with lesser experience. Towing a trailer alters the vehicle's physics, making it more responsive to crosswinds and lane changes, potentially resulting in hazardous swaying.
In some situations, controlling the vehicle becomes challenging or even impossible. At these times, stabilization systems, which the ADAC has recently assessed, can be beneficial. All these systems operate under a similar principle: When the system identifies potentially critical movements in the trailer, it activates the trailer's brakes.
The top performer in the test, scoring an overall 1.5, is the ATC 2.0 from AL-KO, exhibiting exceptional performance throughout all driving stability tests. A less expensive alternative with a score of 2.0 is the LEAS system, which performed well in driving tests but displayed some flaws in processing. The Knott ETS Plus, priced at 815 euros, came in third place due to its delay in evasive maneuvers, scoring a 2.8.
Buyers of anti-sway systems should consider compatibility. The AL-KO system, for example, is compatible with only AL-KO axles, while the Knott solution fits both Knott and AL-KO axles. The Leas from BL-Trading, however, can be used with all axles.
According to the ADAC, proper installation and attachment of the status LED to the front of the caravan are crucial. To minimize the risk of critical driving situations, the ADAC also recommends proper loading and weight distribution of the trailer. If the trailer begins swaying, maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel and apply the brakes gently.
In challenging driving conditions, relying on road transport's inherent stability might not be sufficient, thereby making the use of stabilization systems essential. These systems, as assessed by the ADAC, have proven effective in mitigating potentially hazardous swaying in trailer vehicles.
