Drive mode selector for a drivetrain, vehicle comprising such a drive mode selector, and a method of selecting a drive mode of a drivetrain

摘要

A drive mode selector 200 for a drivetrain of a vehicle, a vehicle comprising such a drive mode selector, and a method of selecting a drive mode of a drivetrain. The drive mode selector comprises a controller 204 for receiving a selection signal 206 from a gesture sensor 208, the selection signal being indicative of a drivetrain drive mode associated with an identified selection gesture made by a user. The controller is also for receiving a status signal 214, 215, 241, indicating a status of at least one vehicle component. The controller is configured to cause the drivetrain to enter the drive mode indicated by the selection signal when the status signal indicates that the drive mode can be selected. The status signal may indicate if a brake 212 is engaged, or that a steering wheel is being grasped or touched by a user at particular points, or if the vehicle speed is above or below a threshold value. The gesture control may allow control of an automatic transmission 202, particularly for changing the forward or reverse drive modes.