What are the layout forms of automotive transmission systems?
2 Answers
The layout forms of transmission systems include: front-engine front-wheel drive, front-engine rear-wheel drive, mid-engine rear-wheel drive, rear-engine rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive. The transmission system is composed of a clutch, gearbox, universal transmission device, and drive axle. The functions of the transmission system are: 1. to reduce speed and increase torque; 2. to change speed and torque; 3. to achieve reverse driving; 4. to interrupt the power transmission of the transmission system. The working principle of the automotive transmission system is that the power generated by the automobile engine is transmitted to the driving wheels through the transmission system, which has the functions of speed reduction, speed change, reverse driving, power interruption, inter-wheel differential, and inter-axle differential. Working in conjunction with the engine, it ensures the normal operation of the automobile under various working conditions, providing good power performance and fuel economy.
I've been driving for years, and there are primarily five types of drivetrain layouts. Front-engine, front-wheel drive (FF) is the most common, with the engine placed at the front and the front wheels responsible for driving; most family cars are like this, such as the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic—affordable, easy for city driving, and with high space utilization, but understeer on snowy roads can be a bit annoying. Front-engine, rear-wheel drive (FR) is also quite common, with the engine at the front and the rear wheels driving; examples include the BMW 3 Series or Mustang, offering more fun as the rear wheels push, with agile and stable cornering, making it suitable for sporty cars. Mid-engine, rear-wheel drive (MR) is often seen in sports cars, with the engine in the middle and the rear wheels driving; some Porsche models feature this, with a centered center of gravity, strong high-speed performance, and thrilling acceleration. Rear-engine, rear-wheel drive (RR) is relatively rare, like the old Volkswagen Beetle, with the engine at the rear and the rear wheels driving; a unique design but with different cornering characteristics. All-wheel drive (AWD) is the versatile type, with all wheels driving; SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 or Subaru Forester are practical, reliable in rain, snow, or off-road conditions, with excellent grip. Each layout has its pros and cons—for daily commuting, FF is recommended, while FR is for those seeking driving excitement.