Etuvetojärjestelmässä

Etuvetojärjestelmässä, commonly translated as front-wheel drive system, is a vehicle drivetrain configuration where the engine's power is transmitted to the front wheels only. This system is prevalent in many passenger cars and light trucks due to its inherent advantages and relatively simple design.

In a typical front-wheel drive setup, the engine, transmission, and differential are integrated into a single unit, often referred to as a transaxle, located at the front of the vehicle. This compact arrangement allows for a more efficient use of space, contributing to larger interior cabins and reduced overall vehicle length. The drive shafts, also known as half-shafts, connect the transaxle to the front wheels, delivering rotational force.

The primary benefits of front-wheel drive include improved traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions like rain or snow, as the weight of the engine is over the driving wheels. It also generally offers better fuel efficiency compared to rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive systems due to reduced weight and less drivetrain loss. Furthermore, the absence of a rear driveshaft and rear differential simplifies the vehicle's undercarriage, allowing for a flatter floor and potentially more cargo space.

However, front-wheel drive systems can also present some drawbacks. Under hard acceleration, torque steer, a tendency for the steering wheel to pull to one side, can be noticeable. The steering and suspension components at the front also experience greater wear due to their dual role of steering and transmitting power. Despite these considerations, front-wheel drive remains a popular and practical choice for a vast majority of modern vehicles.