Abstract: A vehicle (10) has an automatic multi-speed transmission. For starting from rest a launch ratio is selected by a slope and/or obstacle device (13, 15) according to identification of an up-slope (12), a down slope, or an obstacle (17, 18).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a control system for a vehicle powertrain (3). The vehicle powertrain (3) includes a transmission (27), a launch control clutch (31), and a transfer case (39) selectively operable in a high range and a low range. The control system includes a monitor (53, 55) for monitoring one or more operating parameters of the launch control clutch (31) and/or the transmission (27). The control system comprises a controller (49) configured, in dependence on said monitoring means determining that said one or more operating parameters are above a predefined operating threshold or outside a predefined operating range, to output a notification to the user to select said low range; and/or to output a transfer case control signal to the transfer case (39) automatically to select said low range.

Abstract: A control system for a vehicle includes a powertrain comprising a prime mover and a driveline. The control system selectively controls the driveline to assume a first state in which a transmission of the driveline is substantially fully connected to the prime mover and a second state in which when the vehicle is stationary the transmission is at least partially disconnected or decoupled from the prime mover to reduce a torque loading on the prime mover. The control system controls the driveline to assume the second state when the vehicle is held stationary by a brake in response to actuation of a driver operable brake control. Upon release of the brake control, the control system verifies that a first portion of a powertrain of the vehicle is rotating at a speed exceeding a prescribed threshold and commands the driveline to assume the first state before permitting release of the brake.

Abstract: In one aspect of the invention there is provided a control system for a vehicle, the vehicle having a powertrain comprising a prime mover and a driveline, the control system being configured selectively to control the driveline to assume a first state in which a transmission of the driveline is substantially fully connected to the prime mover and a second state in which when the vehicle is stationary the transmission is at least partially disconnected or decoupled from the prime mover thereby to reduce a torque loading on the prime mover, the control system being configured to control the driveline to assume the second state when the vehicle is held stationary by brake means in response to actuation of driver operable brake control means, the control system being operable upon release of the brake control means to verify that a first portion of a powertrain of the vehicle is rotating at a speed exceeding a prescribed threshold and to command the driveline to assume the first state before permitting release of