BorgWarner Debuts Electronic Front-Wheel Drive On Volkswagen Golf GTI
AUBURN HILLS (WWJ) -- BorgWarner, the Auburn Hills auto supplier, said Tuesday it has introduced the world's first electronic limited slip differential designed for the front transaxle of a front-wheel drive vehicle on the 2013 Volkswagen Golf GTI with Performance Pack.
Known as front cross differential technology, the system greatly enhances vehicle traction, handling and stability without sacrificing engine power.
Under certain driving conditions, the FXD technology's enhanced vehicle performance approaches that of an all-wheel drive system but costs less and offers better fuel economy. The technology uses the same electro-hydraulic actuation technology recently launched on BorgWarner's fifth generation AWD coupling, and offers automakers a compact and easy-to-install electronic limited slip differential solution with a wide range of calibration options.
"BorgWarner's FXD technology received very positive reviews during customer demonstrations for its improved traction and vehicle performance," said Stefan Demmerle, President and General Manager, BorgWarner TorqTransfer Systems. "Unlike brake-based systems, our pre-emptive technology anticipates the torque needed in different driving situations, delivering unsurpassed traction, handling and stability while maximizing the fun-to-drive experience for front-wheel drive vehicles."
BorgWarner's bolt-on FXD technology uses the same vehicle sensor inputs as an all wheel drive system to generate controlled locking torque between the left and right front wheels, directing power to the wheel with the best traction even before wheels slip or spin. In some situations, such as climbing an icy hill, FXD technology also improves acceleration through more effective use of available engine power compared with brake-based traction control systems, which tend to consume engine power. For better cornering performance, the system delivers a torque vectoring effect, shifting more power to the outer wheel to reduce inner wheel slip. To enhance vehicle stability, the system has the ability to shift more power to the inner wheel, which greatly reduces intervention from brake-based stability control systems.
More at www.borgwarner.com.
