Nelivetojärjestelmät

Nelivetojärjestelmät, also known as all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), refer to drivetrains that deliver engine power to all wheels of a vehicle. This contrasts with two-wheel drive systems, where power is sent to only two wheels, typically the front or rear. The primary advantage of nelivetojärjestelmät is enhanced traction, particularly in adverse driving conditions such as snow, ice, mud, or off-road terrain. By distributing power to all four wheels, these systems can reduce wheel slip and maintain forward momentum when one or more wheels lose grip.

There are several types of nelivetojärjestelmät. Full-time all-wheel drive systems continuously send power to all wheels, while part-time systems allow the driver to engage or disengage the system as needed. Some systems are designed for performance, improving cornering and acceleration by actively managing torque distribution between the wheels. Others are geared towards off-road capability, often featuring lower gear ratios and locking differentials for maximum traction in extreme situations. The complexity and design of nelivetojärjestelmät can vary significantly between different vehicle manufacturers and models, influencing their performance characteristics and intended use. While offering significant benefits in traction, these systems can sometimes lead to increased fuel consumption and weight compared to their two-wheel drive counterparts.