Four-wheel drive systems are no longer surprising these days. Many different manufacturers use such technologies to increase the advantage of their cars off-road and make them more versatile.
One of the world’s most famous four-wheel-drive technologies is the Quattro, which was developed by the Audi car manufacturer back in the 1980s. More than forty years have passed since the appearance of this technology, but the technology is still being developed today. Of course, the first four-wheel-drive Audi cars certainly did not have such a superior clearance compared to today’s models. Despite that, even older Audi cars were pleasantly surprising and proved that the German manufacturer Audi can create truly advanced technological solutions.
How does this system work?
Quattro technology, which appeared at the end of the last century, is being actively developed to give Audi cars more stability on the road, a better grip on any road surface, and much more. The basic working principle of the Quattro four-wheel drive system is characterized by a specially adapted center differential, which is able to transfer the car’s power to the front and rear wheels at the same time, providing much more driving possibilities.
As mentioned earlier, technology has advanced rapidly over time, which has allowed the manufacturer to create a much more advanced four-wheel drive system. One of the bigger steps was improving the differential itself. The new torque-vectoring differential made the distribution of engine power between the different wheel axles even more precise and comprehensively superior.
A modernized version of the Quattro system
It’s no secret that the first Quattro four-wheel drive systems worked on a mechanical principle. However, over time, electronics were integrated into the system, which, with the help of the car’s computer, made the transmission of power to the wheels extremely precise. One of the biggest advantages of the modernized four-wheel drive system is the constant analysis by the computer, which monitors driving conditions in real-time and automatically makes changes in the differential depending on the road. The car’s computer-controlled differential is still used in today’s Audi cars. Maybe in the future, the manufacturer will surprise again and make this technology even more advanced?
While the primary advantage of four-wheel drive is the improved handling of the car, there are other useful features that anyone using this technology can enjoy. For example, Audi cars with an integrated Quattro system are also characterized by a better economy. The analysis performed by the computer and the monitoring of the road surface allows the power of the engine to be transferred to the wheels that need it most. This reduces energy waste and fuel consumption.
Typically, Audi cars with Quattro systems are considered slightly more expensive when compared to vehicles without this system. This is because system integration requires countless additional audi parts and a more complex car manufacturing process. Despite the higher price, the integrated Quattro system can mean better car retention value and all-road driving versatility.
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Changes to the Quattro four-wheel drive system. How has this technology changed over time?
