## Torque Vectoring: A Detailed Guide to Enhanced Vehicle Handling
### Introduction
Torque vectoring is an automotive technology that enhances vehicle handling and stability by controlling the torque applied to each individual wheel. By optimizing the distribution of torque across the vehicle, torque vectoring improves cornering ability, reduces understeer and oversteer, and enhances overall driving dynamics.
### How Torque Vectoring Works
Torque vectoring systems work by actively controlling the torque delivered to each wheel, typically using electronically controlled clutches or planetary gear sets. These systems monitor vehicle dynamics, such as steering angle, yaw rate, and lateral acceleration, and adjust the torque distribution accordingly.
When the vehicle enters a corner, the torque vectoring system may increase torque to the outer wheels while reducing torque to the inner wheels. This creates a yaw moment that helps the vehicle rotate into the turn. As the vehicle exits the corner, the torque distribution may be reversed to help stabilize the vehicle and prevent oversteer.
### Benefits of Torque Vectoring
Torque vectoring offers significant advantages in vehicle handling and performance:
– Enhanced Cornering Ability: By optimizing torque distribution, torque vectoring improves the vehicle’s ability to turn and navigate corners. It reduces understeer and oversteer, making the vehicle more responsive and predictable in these situations.
– Increased Stability: Torque vectoring plays a crucial role in enhancing vehicle stability, particularly during high-speed driving or on slippery surfaces. It helps prevent the vehicle from losing control by actively counteracting unwanted yaw movements.
– Improved Traction: Torque vectoring can also improve traction, especially in low-grip conditions such as snow, ice, or mud. By directing more torque to the wheels with the best grip, the system enhances the vehicle’s ability to accelerate and maintain stability.
– Reduced Tire Wear: Torque vectoring reduces uneven tire wear by ensuring that each wheel is driving with optimal torque. This extends tire life and improves overall handling consistency.
### Types of Torque Vectoring Systems
There are several different types of torque vectoring systems available, including:
– Mechanical Torque Vectoring: Uses mechanical components, such as differentials or gears, to distribute torque across the wheels.
– Electro-Mechanical Torque Vectoring: Employs electronic controls and clutches to actively adjust torque distribution.
– Brake-Based Torque Vectoring: Uses the vehicle’s brakes to control the torque delivered to each wheel. This is a less sophisticated and less expensive approach than the other methods.
### Vehicles with Torque Vectoring
Torque vectoring is becoming increasingly common on high-performance and luxury vehicles. Some vehicles that feature torque vectoring include:
– Audi: Quattro AWD with torque vectoring
– BMW: xDrive AWD with torque vectoring
– Ford: Performance All-Wheel Drive with torque vectoring
– Lincoln: Intelligent All-Wheel Drive with torque vectoring
– Mercedes-Benz: 4MATIC AWD with torque vectoring
– Porsche: Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus)
– Volkswagen: 4MOTION AWD with torque vectoring
### Conclusion
Torque vectoring is an advanced technology that significantly enhances vehicle handling, stability, and traction. By optimizing the distribution of torque across the wheels, torque vectoring helps drivers navigate corners more confidently, maintain stability in challenging conditions, and enjoy a more responsive and engaging driving experience.
