Drivverket

Drivverket, or drivetrain, is the set of components that transfers power from an engine or motor to the drive wheels of a vehicle or other machine. In passenger cars, the drivverk typically includes the engine or electric motor, the transmission or gear system, the driveshaft or shafts, the differential, the final drive, and the axles and wheels. In four‑wheel drive or all‑wheel drive systems, a transfer case or multi‑plate clutch may also be part of the drivverk. In electric vehicles the concept can be broader, encompassing propulsion motors, inverters, and, in some designs, a simplified or single‑gear transmission.

The primary function of the drivverk is to convert engine torque and speed into wheel torque and speed suitable for different driving situations. It enables acceleration, cruising at various speeds, and controlled deceleration, while a differential allows wheels to rotate at different speeds in corners. Transmission systems provide a range of gear ratios to balance torque and efficiency, and the final drive ratio translates engine output to the wheels. In four‑wheel drive setups, the drivverk can distribute torque to the front and rear axles as needed.

Configurations and variations are common. Common layouts include front‑wheel drive, rear‑wheel drive, and all‑wheel drive. Transmissions may be manual, automatic, or semi‑automatic, and drivetrain designs may feature permanent or on‑demand all‑wheel drive, torque vectoring, and other control technologies. The drivverk is a key area for efficiency and performance considerations, influencing vehicle weight, space, reliability, and maintenance requirements.