Why Did Audi Abandon Torsen?
3 Answers
Here are the reasons why Audi abandoned Torsen: Compromise on patent barriers: Torsen's patents are held by a steering system manufacturer called JTEKT. The lack of patent technology is also a reason why Audi abandoned Torsen. Compromise on emission regulations: Torsen, including the crown gear differential, is indeed unfriendly to fuel economy, mainly due to transmission efficiency and weight, which is another reason why Audi abandoned Torsen. Confidence in its own technology: With significant advancements in sensor technology and electronic control technology, Audi has the courage to boldly experiment and develop new technologies.
Hey, I'm the kind of person who loves tinkering with car parts. I've been fixing cars since I was a kid, and I've noticed that Audi abandoned the Torsen differential mainly because it's too outdated. It's purely mechanical, relying on gears to transfer power by themselves. While it's incredibly durable, it's shockingly heavy—adding dozens of kilograms to the car, which is a burden on modern vehicles. Audi has now shifted to a multi-plate clutch system with electronic control, allowing effortless torque distribution adjustments and cutting the weight in half. This also ties into emissions regulations—lighter weight means better fuel efficiency and lower emissions. Especially for hybrid and electric models, the Torsen just can't keep up; it's too rigid. The new system can even integrate autonomous driving sensors, making it way more practical. Overall, ditching the mechanical Torsen is about embracing efficient, lightweight future tech.
From a corporate perspective, abandoning the Torsen differential ultimately comes down to cost. Mechanical differentials are troublesome to manufacture, with expensive parts and requiring manual adjustments on the production line, making costs exorbitantly high. Now, using a clutch system with modular design allows for easier mass production and maintenance, saving significant expenses. In such a fiercely competitive market, Audi must control prices to capture market share. The lightweight design also incidentally reduces fuel consumption, aligning with environmental trends and enhancing brand image. Considering rising fuel prices, consumers are more concerned about economy, making older systems like Torsen seem outdated. In the end, business decisions are about balancing innovation and profit.
