What does ABS stand for in vehicle braking systems?

ABS stands for Anti-Lock Braking System, a crucial safety feature in modern vehicles. This system is designed to prevent the wheels from locking up during heavy braking, which can lead to loss of steering control. By allowing the wheels to continue rotating, ABS helps maintain traction between the tires and the road surface, especially in slippery conditions like rain or snow.

The operation of the ABS involves a series of sensors that monitor the speed of each wheel. If the system detects that one or more wheels are beginning to lock up, it automatically modulates the braking pressure applied to those wheels. This modulation happens rapidly, essentially pumping the brakes much faster than a driver could manually, which greatly improves stopping distance and overall vehicle stability during hard braking maneuvers.

The other options refer to different braking technologies or concepts that do not match the established terminology or function of ABS, which directly addresses wheel lock-up prevention. Understanding the role of ABS is vital for safe driving practices, especially in adverse weather conditions.