Expedition, Navigator next with stability control

Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator are next in line among Ford Motor Co.'s sport/utility vehicles (SUVs) to get electronic stability control (ESC) when they're introduced in 2002 as '03 models. They join '02 Ford Explorer, which is scheduled to feature the anti-rollover technology this fall. By 2005 Ford wants all of its SUVs to have ESC, which monitors a driver's steering, braking and throttle use as well as vehicle response to yaw, wheel speed and lateral acceleration to determine if a performance limit has been reached. It would be the first significant makeover for the fullsize SUVs since their introduction in 1997. They also will be outfitted with independent rear suspension, which clears room for integration of a fold-flat third-row seat. Look for ESC on the '02 Windstar as well, on the heels of a National Highway Traffic Safety Admin. review that describes it as “potentially promising technology.” So far, 19 automakers offer some form of ESC.