Abstract: A method of controlling a vehicle having a transmission system, an engine system, and a braking system includes detecting a braking condition of the braking system. The braking condition is at least one of a brake temperature being above a predetermined brake temperature limit and a braking load being above a predetermined braking load limit. The method also includes detecting a second condition of at least one of the transmission system and the engine system. The method also includes determining whether the second condition satisfies predetermined criteria. Furthermore, the method includes detecting an absolute vehicle acceleration that is below a predetermined acceleration limit. Moreover, the method includes downshifting from a current gear to a lower gear to thereby cause engine braking when the braking condition is satisfied, the second condition satisfies the predetermined criteria, and the absolute vehicle acceleration is below the predetermined acceleration limit.

Abstract: A method of controlling a vehicle having a transmission system, an engine system, and a braking system includes detecting a braking condition of the braking system. The braking condition is at least one of a brake temperature being above a predetermined brake temperature limit and a braking load being above a predetermined braking load limit. The method also includes detecting a second condition of at least one of the transmission system and the engine system. The method also includes determining whether the second condition satisfies predetermined criteria. Furthermore, the method includes detecting an absolute vehicle acceleration that is below a predetermined acceleration limit. Moreover, the method includes downshifting from a current gear to a lower gear to thereby cause engine braking when the braking condition is satisfied, the second condition satisfies the predetermined criteria, and the absolute vehicle acceleration is below the predetermined acceleration limit.

Abstract: The present disclosure adjusts an air conditioner (A/C) compressor load responsive to the available torque to provide a compromise between A/C system and vehicle performance. The maximum available torque is monitored in real-time, and it is determined if there is enough torque to keep the A/C on for a fixed displacement compressor or how much the compressor displacement can be destroked through a current control for a variable displacement compressor. In an exemplary embodiment, an engine control unit (ECU) broadcasts the maximum available torque at a flywheel based on sensor readings and calculations. Accordingly, this broadcast enables a determination of whether there is enough torque available to maintain the A/C system in a controlled manner. Advantageously, the present disclosure avoids an abrupt turn-off or turn-on of the A/C system. Rather, the present disclosure maintains the A/C system in a controlled manner providing improved vehicle driveability.