The Basic Principle of Drive-By-Wire Throttle Control

Drive-by-wire means that the throttle valve is connected with the throttle pedal by wire. There is a sensor which detects the position of the gas pedal and gives information to the position sensor. The position sensor gives information to the    Engine Control Unit (ECU). The ECU makes calculation what amount of fuel and air is necessary to be injected into the cylinders and opens/closes the throttle valve by an electrical motor.

Scheme for drive-by-wire throttle control

The gas pedal could has own position sensor which gives information to the ECU. This system doesn’t use wire and the whole information between the gas pedal and the ECU to the throttle valve goes by a cable.