XDrive

XDrive is a term used in different industries to denote drive-related or data-management technologies. It does not refer to a single product or standard, but to several distinct systems that share a focus on torque distribution, vehicle dynamics, or cross-device data access.

In automotive use, xDrive most commonly refers to BMW's all-wheel-drive system. Introduced in the 2000s, the system uses an electronically controlled mechanism to vary torque between the front and rear axles. The design aims to improve traction, stability, and handling in a range of road conditions.

In information technology, xDrive has been used as a brand name for various storage and synchronization products from different vendors. These implementations typically offer cross-device access, cloud synchronization, encryption, and versioning, but features, performance, and compatibility vary widely across products and platforms.

Design considerations differ by context. Automotive xDrive prioritizes drivetrain reliability and on-road performance, while IT-oriented xDrive products emphasize data integrity, security, and interoperability. Adoption and reception vary by market; in cars, consumers weigh all-wheel traction against added weight and cost, whereas IT solutions contend with vendor lock-in, privacy concerns, and integration with existing systems. See also BMW xDrive for the best-known automotive implementation.