Drifting Maneuver Investigation via Phase Plane Analysis of Experimental Data

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of experimental data on drifting maneuvers, using vehicle data collected by Stanford University with a professional driver. Vehicle dynamics during drifting, characterised by high sideslip angles and countersteering, are examined. By using a nonlinear single track model with nonlinear tires, this study compares real-car data to simulated models within a phase-plane framework. It also explores the application of saddle-node bifurcation theory to understand the abrupt changes in vehicle behaviour during drifting.