What Does On-Demand Four-Wheel Drive Mean?
1 Answers
On-demand four-wheel drive refers to a system that automatically activates four-wheel drive when the vehicle encounters conditions requiring it, otherwise operating in two-wheel drive mode. Automotive four-wheel drive systems are categorized into full-time four-wheel drive, part-time four-wheel drive, and on-demand four-wheel drive. On-demand four-wheel drive does not require driver intervention. When poor road conditions or wheel slippage are detected, the system automatically engages and redistributes engine torque to the front wheels, seamlessly switching to four-wheel drive. Compared to other four-wheel drive systems, on-demand four-wheel drive has a simpler structure, effectively reducing costs and overall vehicle weight. It is suitable for those needing moderate off-road capability while maintaining fuel efficiency. Precautions for using on-demand four-wheel drive systems: The vehicle will automatically switch from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive when detecting wheel slippage, active steering, or loss of control. Alternatively, the driver can forcibly engage four-wheel drive via a lock switch, though this method has specific requirements. For example, in the Toyota Highlander, the four-wheel drive mode can only be maintained at speeds below 40 km/h after locking. Some part-time four-wheel drive vehicles cannot use four-wheel drive on hard surfaces, especially when turning, due to the lack of a center differential in the transfer case, which prevents adjustment of front and rear axle speeds.