A versatile new modeling technology was used to help design an innovative traction control system. Using models written exclusively in the IEEE standard VHDL-AMS language, simulation-based analysis and verification were performed at both the component/subsystem and at the overall system levels. Key insights were gained about a wide range of design issues, from the critical need to bleed the brake lines, to power converter topology trade-offs, to detecting inherent wheel lock-up modes in the control algorithm. This paper presents modeling and simulation techniques applicable to a wide range of automotive "mechatronic" systems, where coordinated interaction of mechanical, electronic, and software components is required to meet performance goals.