Ferrari has developed a new optional four-wheel drive
system, dubbed as "insertable 4x4", which is designed to
maximise the performance capability of their sports cars
under all conditions.
This latest project follows on from an
'adaptable' four-wheel drive system that was developed in
Maranello last year and clearly demonstrates again that
Ferrari are looking very closely at this form of traction.
The new insertable four-wheel system seeks to remove the
disadvantages of a permanent four-wheel drive
arrangement, particularly the loss of engine torque
associated with it, by using a system that can be taken out
of the equation as required. However Ferrari's engineers
have worked hard to remove the obstacles in the way of an
optional four-wheel drive system and create a set-up
"which is easy and cost effective to implement, free from
the drawbacks described above and which at the same
time allows for an increase in performance, stability and
traction control in all grip conditions."
"Currently, a sporty, high performance car presents rear
wheel drive and is provided with a self-locking differential
aiming at maximising motive torque transmitted by the rear
wheels to the road surface in all conditions," say Ferrari.
"Rear wheel drive with self-locking differential is a premium
for sporty driving in either optimal grip conditions (dry road)
or reasonable grip conditions (wet road); however, such a
solution in combination with a high motive torque and
large-sized tyres entails very difficult and potentially
dangerous driving in poor grip conditions (flooded or icy
road).
"The use of permanent or insertable for wheel drive has
been proposed in order to improve the driveability of a
sports car in poor grip conditions. Whilst permanent four
wheel drive considerably improves the behaviour of motor
vehicles in poor grip conditions, it presents the drawback of
increasing loss of torque in the transmission system and
conferring to the car a behaviour in optimal grip conditions
which is not always appreciated by drivers.
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