If you’re wondering what all wheel drive vehicles are, the simple way to understand the concept is to think of it as a four-wheel drive vehicle that is always in four wheel drive mode. This means that the system usually has a centered drive train differential that allows all four wheels to simultaneously use torque generated by the engine.
A differential is a device that allows two output shafts to be driven at different speeds by a single input shaft, evening the torque evenly and dividing the turning speed. The first four wheel steering, multiple differential system was patented in 1893 by English engineer Bramah Joseph Diplock.
The first car to utilize the four-wheel driven design was an electric vehicle developed in 1899 by none other than Ferdinand Porsche. Unfortunately for these early innovators, the four-wheel drive vehicle would not find its niche in the automotive world until World War II.
When the US military needed vehicles that were able to reliably travel anywhere, including over poor terrain, the Jeep quickly became the world’s best known four wheel drive vehicle. This ubiquitous symbol of American troop transportation was a staple in both the European and Pacific theaters of war.
While most all-wheel drive vehicles use the aforementioned system of multiple differentials or another similar setup, there have been a few that are notable for their use of multiple engines driving separate axles, as in the case of Citroën’s 2CV Sahara. Some hybrid vehicles also power their AWD systems through paired electric motors.
There are many different makes and models of all wheel drive vehicles. Fuel prices are on the rise and many consumers are exchanging their four-wheel drive automobiles for all wheel drive models. With technology advancing many manufacturers such as Honda and Subaru have adjusted their AWD systems obtain better fuel economy.
All wheel drive vehicle demand is on the rise. Consumers are taking advantage of vehicles that can travel in unsatisfactory conditions. When compared to front or rear wheel drive vehicles, AWD models offer the added security of four-wheel traction.
The traditional four-wheel drive automobile is being phased into an all wheel drive one. Why is this? One main reason is fuel consumption. As technology has advanced, all wheel drive vehicles have incorporated systems that supply power to individual wheels, as additional traction is needed.
Most AWD systems such as the ones that are available in the Subaru’s and Honda’s can transfer power to wheels diagonally and front to back. This transferring of power helps reduce the wasted torque that would be used in a four-wheel drive vehicle.
Sensors are located in all wheels that provide data to the cars computer that will tell the drive train which wheels need the extra power.
Honda and Subaru alike offer factory supplied coverage against all wheel drive vehicle failures or problems.
As the technology advances, one should look to see more makes and models that are taking advantage of all wheel drive technology. Take the opportunity to visit dealerships and drive the different automobiles available. In addition to driving them ask the salesman about the different AWD systems available.
