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This paper describes an investigation that seeks to understand how rollovers occur in real-world crashes, both by studying real world crashes and by analyzing vehicle handling tests to gain insights into potential mechanisms of pre-crash loss of control. In particular, this study focuses on one type of rollover, namely single-vehicle rollovers that follow a pattern of the vehicle first leaving the roadway and then returning to the roadway typically out-of-control. Aims of this study included the following: To describe the frequency and characteristics of single-vehicle rollovers involving an off-roadway excursion followed by a complete, if only temporary return to the roadway. To the extent possible, given available data, to assess the nature and consequences of driver inputs during the crash sequence. To define characteristics of crash scenarios which include a substantial proportion of this subset of single-vehicle rollovers.

The consequences of global warming have forced the governments of developed economies to impose strict regulations on the emission of so called ‘green house gases’. Carbon dioxide, a by-product of fossil fuel combustion, is a major contributor to global warming. The focus of government treaties, in the face of continued globalization and third world development, has been to stabilize contributions of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere. Vehicle manufacturers and suppliers have tackled legislation and consumer pressures in a variety of ways. One of the most effective ways to reduce fuel consumption of passenger vehicles, consequently reducing their CO2 emissions, is so-called “engine downsizing”. This involves the improvement of the torque of a smaller displacement engine with respect to (w.r.t.) a given engine installed in a vehicle, and the use of longer gear ratios in the transmission.

New instruments are quantitatively measuring vehicle emissions under real-world conditions. Hughes has fielded a cost-effective, real-time remote emissions sensor (RES) employing infrared technology to determine emission levels of CO, HC, and NO. Separate processors within the RES capture license plate and speed/acceleration data within the same 0.8 - second window as emissions data. Field tests have shown excellent correlation between high emitters identified by the RES and by IM240 measurements. Similar technology is being employed on miniaturized high-temperature units for vehicular on-board emissions monitoring. An on-vehicle prototype will be demonstrated this year.