Unknown Feature
09-22-11, 11:20 AM
#1
Driver
Thread Starter
Unknown Feature
I really liked the old thread about things you didn't know the SC430 would do or options that it had and I learned a lot from it. Now I have one that I have yet to read about and wanted some verification. It is a feature I have never read anything about or heard anyone comment on.
When going down a hill, transmission in automatic mode and not power setting, if I tap my brake pedal, my tranny will downshift and hold that gear. If I then apply a little throttle, it will hold the gear up to around 2500-3000 rpm, then shift. I have tried it on different hills and believe me, I know there is nothing wrong with the transmission. I can replicate it. Anybody know if this is an advertised feature?
TOXIC
When going down a hill, transmission in automatic mode and not power setting, if I tap my brake pedal, my tranny will downshift and hold that gear. If I then apply a little throttle, it will hold the gear up to around 2500-3000 rpm, then shift. I have tried it on different hills and believe me, I know there is nothing wrong with the transmission. I can replicate it. Anybody know if this is an advertised feature?
TOXIC
09-22-11, 01:24 PM
#3
This has been around for a long time. My 2000 ES300 had the feature. It is built into many Lexus models and other makes of cars. I have a friend that has a Buick with the same feature. It is meant to help reduce the amount of brake pressure needed to maintain a steady speed downhill. I have a 6 speed. I assume the 5 speed has the same feature.
I think it is called "hill assist"
I think it is called "hill assist"
Last edited by iolmaster; 09-22-11 at 01:29 PM.
09-23-11, 11:35 AM
#5
Driver
Thread Starter
I've been reading on here for over a year and this is the first I've heard of it. Nice feature but can take you by surprise. When you tap the brake it feels like you shift into neutral for a split second, then it downshifts. Mine is the 5 speed as well.
TOXIC
TOXIC
09-23-11, 12:01 PM
#6
Moderator
It's not "Brake Assist". It is actually called AI Shift or Artificial Intelligence Shift. It's been standard equipment on several Lexus models for years.
Here's the explanation:
A basic explanation of the different technologies used in our cars can be found on this site: http://www.lexus.com.bh/technology_e...el=6_SC#active
Here's the explanation:
"Think of Artificial Intelligence Shift as a gearbox that can read your mind. When you want relax and just cruise, it gives you smooth automatic gearchanges. When you want to press on, the changes become quicker and crisper. So how can it predict your mood? Sensors monitor the movement of the accelerator pedal, the car's speed and the road conditions. Then, using complex algorithms, the system determines your intent and makes intelligent choices about gear selection. It even changes down [downshifts] intuitively when you are going downhill to give you more engine braking."
