Let's pretend you're attempting a steep, muddy, rutted, rocky hill climb.

You are going to need traction and momentum to get to the top.

In order for electronic traction control to even operate and attempt to redistribute torque there must be wheelspin. As soon as a wheel spins traction has been lost.

ETC begins to brake and/or cut engine power to reduce wheelspin which will also dramatically reduce your momentum.

While ETC can certainly be of help to vehicles with open differentials, it is no substitute for lockers.

George Gamarci
2002 G500 - Midnight Blue / Charcoal

[QUOTE]

I still maintain, and all of the available literature confirms, that the traction system of the ML is as good as it gets, but it is obviously hindered by both ground clearance and suspension travel.