An anti-lock braking system (commonly known as ABS, from the German name "Antiblockiersystem" given to it by its inventors at Bosch) is a system on automobiles which prevents the wheels from locking while braking. The purpose of this is twofold: to allow the driver to maintain steering control and to shorten braking distances (by allowing the driver to fully hit the brake without the fear for skidding or the loss of control; the system itself does not contain miracle wonder technology to improve the tire quality).