Saab Introduces New Cross Wheel Drive Technology
Saab has recently launched a cross wheel drive technology in its Turbo X and 9-3 Aero XWD Sport Sedan and SportCombi models. The intelligent system of “cross wheel drive” was developed in Sweden by vehicle safety expert, Haldex. The company has developed a unique torque transfer system that allows both the front and rear wheel drives of a Saab vehicle to be able to transfer torque among each other, depending on the need. The innovative system is said to increase driver involvement with tire movements and greater vehicle stability in all driving conditions.
This is a unique system for automotives because it is the first of its kind to utilize advanced technology in the transfer of torque among all the wheels. Vehicles equipped with the “cross wheel drive” system come with a 280 hp (206 kW), 2.8 V6 turbo engine that offers 15% more maximum torque (400 Nm/295 lbs/ft). Saab decided to introduce the “cross wheel drive” technology with one goal in mind: better traction.
The “cross wheel drive” technology has a Torque Transfer Device (TTD), a Rear Drive Module (RDM), and an electronically-controlled Limited Slip Differential (eLSD). These mechanisms have a separate electronic device unit that is activated when the clutch plates are pressed together. In a wet, slippery road or a steep incline, for example, the Torque Transfer Device (TTD) transfers power between wheels. As the TTD is initiated, the Rear Drive Module (RDM) becomes activated. The Rear Drive Module (RDM) functions as its name entails, it controls the rear wheels to provide better traction. The electronically-controlled Limited Slip Differential (eLSD) works hand in hand with the Torque Transfer Device (TTD) and the Rear Drive Module (RDM). Each tire of the Saab vehicle has speed sensors, these sensors detect which tire has the best grip or traction while on a slippery road or an incline. The electronically-controlled Limited Slip Differential (eLSD) then transfers the torque to the wheel/s that it detects to have the best grip.
To avail of the “cross wheel drive” technology, Saab vehicles would need “a new rear sub-frame to carry the RDM, revised rear suspension geometry and new wheel hubs for the drive shafts”. As a requirement, all cross wheel drive equipped Saab vehicles will need 18 inch alloy wheels.
