Abstract: A brake-by-wire automotive braking system includes a master cylinder connected to a number of wheel cylinders, with the master cylinder being actuated by a brake pedal assembly operatively connected with a master cylinder force simulator simulating the resistive force/displacement characteristics of the master cylinder itself. An electronically controlled compliance device selectively immobilizes the master cylinder force simulator so that the resistive force provided by the simulator may be applied selectively to the brake pedal. This produces a transparency in the brake pedal's operational feel, notwithstanding the presence or absence of force provided by the master cylinder force simulator.

Abstract: A method for providing brake boosting in a hybrid motor vehicle having a brake boosting system powered by an internal combustion engine and by an auxiliary brake boosting device includes monitoring the output of an auxiliary brake boosting device not driven by the engine, and in the event that the auxiliary brake boosting device is not operating properly, starting the internal combustion engine associated with the vehicle to provide a desired level of brake boost.