Why Did Audi Abandon Torsen?
1 Answers
Audi's reasons for abandoning Torsen are as follows: 1. Compromise on patent barriers: Torsen's patents are held by JTEKT, a steering system manufacturer affiliated with Toyota. Given Audi's industry status, it wouldn't want to rely on a competitor for such critical technology (similar to its stance on AT and DCT transmissions). 2. Compliance with emission regulations: Torsen, including its crown gear differential, is indeed unfriendly to fuel economy, mainly due to transmission efficiency and weight issues. 3. Confidence in its own technology: With significant advancements in sensor and electronic control technologies, coupled with Audi's bold and innovative approach, the company has great confidence in its own technical capabilities.