A very good step forward.
http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do...ticleId=120342
Of course, this will mean that ABS will have to be standard as well. The law goes into effect on '09 MY cars and trucks (that weigh >10,000lbs) Brands that make less than 5,000 cars a year will have additional time to phase it in. It will cost automakers $111 per abs equiped vehicle to implement the system. GM and Ford have said all 2008 MY cars wll have it standard, beating the deadline.
EDIT: The Edmunds article seems to be incorrect.
THIS article is correct. ESC will be standard by
2012.