A hydraulic handbrake, also known as a hydraulic e-brake or hydraulic parking brake, is a system used in vehicles, particularly in motorsports and performance applications, to provide better control over the rear wheels during drifting or hard cornering. Here’s a detailed overview:
Function:
- Rear Wheel Control: The primary purpose is to lock the rear wheels independently from the front wheels, allowing the driver to initiate and control slides or drifts more effectively.
- Emergency Braking: It can also serve as a secondary braking system in case of failure of the primary brakes.
Advantages:
- Precision Control: Provides more precise modulation of the rear brakes compared to traditional mechanical handbrakes, which can lead to better handling.
- Reduced Driver Fatigue: Requires less effort to engage compared to mechanical systems, especially during prolonged use in motorsport situations.
Applications:
- Motorsports: Widely used in drifting, rally racing, and other motorsport disciplines where rear-wheel control is crucial.
- Performance Vehicles: Also found in modified street cars where enhanced control is desired.