High-speed off-roaders use a trick transmission case with clutch and mechanical engagement.
What is the difference between all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive? This question has been asked many times over the years. They don’t all look the same. All-wheel drive systems are usually clutch-based. Four-wheel drive systems use a mechanical connection to lock components. All-wheel drive works better on all types of terrain, and is more suitable for real-world applications. Four-wheel drive systems offer greater off-road performance and are more reliable. However, they are not suitable for full time engagement due to their locked mechanical connections. Ask any owner of pickup trucks about replacing their expensive front hubs that didn’t lock when the four-wheel drive was disconnected.
This description is provided because the new F150 Raptor from Ford has both of these designs. It features a Terrain Management System that includes a dual-mode transfer box, which has clutch-based all wheel drive functionality and electronic lockers to ensure proper mechanical connections off-road.
“Raptor’s Transfer Case offers the best of both the worlds, with all-wheel drive benefits such as increased traction in snow and rain, as well as the extreme off-road capabilities that come with a mechanically locked system,” Tony Greco, Ford F-150 Raptor program Manager, stated in a press release.
Raptor’s Terrain Management System controls all functions. Raptor drivers have the option to use the 4×4 automatic setting for daily commutes. This utilizes the clutch-based transfer case feature to transmit power to front axles. It can also be fine-tuned with weather mode for slippery conditions or sport mode which sends more power back to the rear for more spirited driving.
Drivers can choose mud/sand mode when the road ends to engage 4×4 high with a traditional mechanical engagement. Rock crawl mode is for low-speed maneuvering and has a higher gear ratio. The Raptor can be manually adjusted to adjust the settings for specific situations, such as when the driver is navigating through a busy mall parking lot or sailing down trails at high speed. We have had the chance to see the Raptor in action and will give credit where credit is due. The Raptor is eager to please, whether it’s towing a Mercedes-Benz wagon or launching over dunes.
Ford has placed a lot of faith in the Raptor’s potential to surpass the previous generation. This is thanks to its combination with the EcoBoost V6 engine that produces 450 horsepower and the 10-speed automatic transmission. Despite this, Ford F-Series sales fell slightly in April. However, dealers report high demand for the updated off-roader.