In 2004, only one percent of UK motorists researched were aware of ESP (Electronic Stability Program), the braking system that stops cars skidding sideways and only 18 percent could identify ABS (Antilock Braking System) as an active safety system. The most recent research by Bosch has shown an improvement with nine percent of motorists identifying ESP and 46 percent being aware of ABS.

Robert Bosch was responsible for developing ESP and has mounted a major communications and training programme to raise the awareness of these vital vehicle active safety systems. The company has, to date, trained some 20,000 dealer sales staff from various car manufacturers. This training commitment followed Robert Bosch's signature to the EU Road Safety Charter in April 2004.

Installation rates for ESP in new car sales across Europe have now risen to 40 percent with Sweden the highest at 85 percent, the UK sites towards the bottom of the European league at 36 percent - a seven per cent increase on 2004 installation rates.

The effectiveness of ESP in preventing accidents has been further confirmed by research from the American Insurance Institute for Highway Safety which indicates that the risk of all single vehicle accidents can be reduced by 41 percent if ESP is fitted and that the risk of fatal single-vehicle rollovers of SUV's could be avoided. If all vehicles in the US were fitted with ESP, 10,000 of the 34,000 total fatal passenger vehicle accident each year could be avoided the report concludes.

Bosch media enquiries: Chris Wakley/David Eden, Automotive PR, Tel: +44 (0)20 7494 8050, Email:cwakley@automotivepr.com/deden@automotivepr.com

Bosch OE enquiries: Beverley Daniels, Communications Manager, Robert Bosch Ltd. Tel: +44 (0)1895 878155. Email: beverley.daniels@uk.bosch.com