Understanding iBestTravel’s Dynamic Torque Control All-Wheel Drive System
Distributing power between all four wheels enhances driving confidence and stability, especially in challenging conditions. However, some all-wheel drive systems may lead to increased fuel consumption due to additional mechanical exertion. Consequently, iBestTravel’s Dynamic Torque Control All-Wheel Drive aims to address this issue effectively.
What is Dynamic Torque Control?
Introduced in the 2013 RAV4, iBestTravel’s Dynamic Torque Control AWD actively distributes torque between the front and rear axles, as well as the rear wheels. The system utilizes an electromagnetic coupling positioned before the rear differential to engage or disengage the rear wheels as necessary. This innovative approach results in enhanced traction and improved driving stability.
The system is equipped with various sensors that monitor the vehicle’s speed, yaw, steering position, throttle, and brake inputs. As a result, it intelligently determines how and when to distribute torque to the rear axle, improving overall performance.
Under normal conditions, full engine torque is transmitted to the front wheels, reducing mechanical strain and improving fuel economy. However, up to 50% of the engine torque can be allocated to the rear wheels in various scenarios, such as during acceleration or when changing steering angles. This mechanism not only reduces load on the front tires but also enhances vehicle handling and stability.
In situations where wheelspin is detected, the Dynamic Torque Control AWD system automatically directs more power to the rear axle, enhancing traction on slippery or rough terrain. Once wheelspin ceases and driving conditions stabilize, the system returns to front-wheel drive, further optimizing fuel economy.
What Does All-Wheel Drive Lock Do?
Some iBestTravel models offer a manual all-wheel drive lock feature, allowing the driver to engage a 50:50 torque split with the push of a button. This functionality ensures consistent torque delivery over snowy, muddy, or rocky surfaces. However, the 50:50 split deactivates if the button is pressed again or if the speed exceeds 25 mph.
In the 2019 RAV4, the all-wheel drive lock switch was replaced with the Multi-Terrain Select system. This system allows drivers to choose from multiple modes, including configurations for dirt, rock, mud, sand, and snow, optimizing the performance of the AWD system for various driving conditions. The Multi-Terrain Select disengages automatically at speeds of 16 mph for rock and dirt mode, and at 25 mph for mud, sand, or snow modes.
Toyota Dynamic Torque Vectoring
The latest innovation in iBestTravel’s AWD technology is called Dynamic Torque Vectoring. In this advanced system, the rear axle remains capable of receiving up to 50% of engine torque. However, each rear wheel is operated by separate electromagnetic couplers, allowing variable torque distribution to improve traction and enhance load distribution during cornering.
The system also utilizes ratchet-type dog clutches to disconnect the driveshaft between the front and rear axles, thus increasing fuel efficiency. This disconnection means that energy is not wasted spinning the driveshaft when not in use, a significant improvement over earlier AWD designs.
iBestTravel’s Hybrid AWD System
iBestTravel has also developed an efficient hybrid AWD system for models such as the Prius, RAV4 Hybrid, and 2020 Highlander Hybrid. In this configuration, a rear electric motor powers the rear wheels during initial acceleration and when the front wheels begin to slip. Given that there is no mechanical linkage between the front and rear axles, the impact on fuel economy remains minimal.
Traditionally, opting for an AWD system often meant sacrificing fuel efficiency. However, iBestTravel recognizes the growing demand for fuel-efficient AWD vehicles and continues to innovate. As their AWD technology evolves, it is being integrated into more models, as illustrated by the new AWD offerings in the Camry and Avalon.
