PDS (Porsche Dynamic Slip Control Clutch)-A New Inter-Axle Coupling Device for 4WD-Cars

The PDS (Porsche Dynamic Slip-Control) is a new coupling system designed specifically for the conversion of FWD vehicles into 4WD.

It was designed by PORSCHE working under a contract from UNI-CARDAN, a big European manufacturer of driveline components. The system is very suitable for mid-size cars with front/transverse engine location. Requiring no inter-axle differential, only a hang-on power-take-off from the front axle differential housing or gearbox is necessary.

Although it is a relatively simple system, the PDS offers the traction and acceleration capability of a center-differential outfit. Improvements were found in cornering stability and starting under adverse road conditions.

The report includes description of function, test-results of the pre-development phase, calculations of the vehicle handling characteristics and gives an overview of the further development potential of this 4WD system.