Fundamentals of Automotive All-Wheel Drive Systems

This course provides an introduction to the fundamental concepts and evolution of passenger car and light truck 4x4/all-wheel drive (AWD) systems including the nomenclature utilized to describe these systems. Basic power transfer unit and transfer case design parameters, component application to system function, the future of AWD systems, and emerging technologies that may enable future systems are covered.

This course is an excellent follow-up to the  98024-A Familiarization of Drivetrain Components course (which is designed for those who have limited experience with the total drivetrain).

What Will You Learn

By attending this course, you will be able to:
  • Identify front wheel drive and rear wheel drive vehicle architectures
  • Identify part time, full time, and eLearning all-wheel drive systems
  • Explain the benefits of all-wheel drive over two-wheel drive
  • Quantify all wheel drive traction and mobility benefits
  • Describe auxiliary axle disconnect systems
  • Explain basic vehicle dynamics performance and the effect of AWD on performance
  • Identify couplers vs. biasing devices and their basic function
  • Describe the differences between mechanical and electrical implementation in AWD systems
  • Describe basic control strategies and logic
  • Discuss advanced propulsion concepts and systems

Is This Course For You

This course is designed for engineers (working with passenger cars, light trucks, and SUVs) who need to master AWD componentry, and the function and effect of those components. Engineers new to the 4WD/AWD field, as well as managers, marketing personnel, purchasing professionals and others interested in all-wheel drive fundamentals will benefit from this course.

Also available as an SAE eLearning Course!
Fundamentals of Automotive All-Wheel Drive Systems (PD730556)

Materials Provided

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Course Requirements

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Topics

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