All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system in which all the wheels are provided with individual torque from the engine. The AWD driving system is relatively newer, contrary to 4WD and 2WD systems in the vehicle. Its working and construction is also different from other drivetrain systems, as it can provide different torque to wheels at a time.
Here we will provide you with complete details about the AWD driving system, its working and its structure.
What is AWD in Cars?
AWD drivetrain is a driving system that can rotate both front and rear axles with different amounts of torque supplied to each tyre. Three differential systems are installed on the drivetrain to make the unequal distribution of torque possible. However, not all the tyres are in working position all the time, it depends upon the type and conditions of the drivetrain.
AWD Vehicles
AWD vehicles are characterized by their increased road safety and drivability conditions. This system is multi-tasking and can perform in different weather conditions and on city roads. Here we have enlisted all the details about AWD vehicles.
Types of AWD
In AWD cars not all wheels of the vehicle are working while driving. There are different variations in the AWD system. Some of them are AWD with a 2WD option and some are a combination of AWD and 4WD. See the following types of AWD systems used in cars.
- Part-Time: The part-time or automatic AWD drivetrain system is a 2WD drivetrain by default. It converts into AWD when additional traction is required for rear tyres. This conversion can either be either automatic or manual.
- Full-Time: The full-time AWD sends torque to both rear and front drivetrain all the time. These vehicles lack the option of changing the drivetrain. It is generally used in luxury vehicles to provide them with higher speed on roads.
Structure
The structure of AWD is different from other drivetrains, as it contains additional elements that support it in power distribution. See the following components that complete and make an AWD system functional.
- Driveshaft: These are rods that form the structure of the drivetrain. AWD driveshafts are segmented into the front, middle and rear driveshafts.
- Differentials: These are the system of gears that helps in rotating different wheels at different speeds on the same axle. Some AWD vehicles also uses viscous coupling or multi-plate clutch like a four-wheel drive vehicle.
- Gears: They are the components used for transmitting power from the engine to the rear axle without energy loss.
Working
The power is transmitted from an engine to the front driveshaft through transmissions. The torque from the transmission forces the front driveshaft to rotate. Smaller gears attached at the middle transfer that torque to the middle shaft and rotate it. At the front end of the middle driveshaft, differentials are installed which enables the front wheels to rotate at different speeds. The torque travels from this differential to another drive shaft located at the junction of the middle and rear axle which enables the rear wheel to rotate at different angles.
In automatic AWD, there are sensors on the drivetrain which automatically engage the rear shaft in case a high powertrain is required. However, it contains an additional multi-plate clutch that makes it possible to switch from 2WD to AWD.
AWD Advantages and Disadvantages
AWDs are generally used in luxury and exotic cars to increase their speed on the road. Moreover, some sedans, SUVs and crossovers also have this system. Here we have listed some pros and cons of driving AWD cars.
Pros
- It quickly distributes the torque that provides additional grip on the road. The quick transfer of the traction can also help in driving on uncertain roads.
- Advanced AWD systems use intelligent torque vectoring which improves the handling of the vehicle.
- The auto-conversion option of the AWD makes the vehicle feasible for a large number of situations.
Cons
- Each tyre expired at a different time, and drivers often get confused about when to change their car’s tyre.
- AWD vehicles are generally less fuel-efficient as it requires additional torque for each driveshaft.
This was all about AWD vehicles and how they work. Vehicles having AWD vehicle drivetrain provide better handling and increased road-grip. If you want to experience it, browse through these used cars for sale in the UAE.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on drivetrains.
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