Active Center Differential (ACD) is an electronically controlled center differential developed by Mitsubishi Motors. It was first introduced in the 2001 Lancer Evolution VII. Designed for high-performance four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles, it actively regulates the distribution of the drive torque - up to 50:50 - between front and rear wheels, thereby improving the steering response and enhancing traction at the same time.[1][2][3][4][5][6][7]
Using an electronically controlled variable hydraulic multi-plate clutch, the ACD has a differential limiting capacity three times greater than that of the viscous coupling-type (VCU) differential. For use in various motorsport activities, the ACD system was developed to offer maximum directional response with no sacrifice in the superior vehicle stability offered by a full-time 4WD system with VCU-type center differential and to offer traction performance comperable with that realized by a rigid 4WD system (one that distributes torque to the front and rear wheels in front/rear weight ratio) under a wide range of driving conditions.[1][6]
References
edit- ^ a b "Development of Center-Differential Control System for High-Performance Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles", .pdf file, Mitsubishi Motors technical review
- ^ "MMC launches Lancer Evolution VII - Sophisticated 4WD sports sedan", Mitsubishi Motors press release
- ^ "All Wheel Control", Mitsubishi Motors website
- ^ "FAQ-About the Evo 7 & 8 ACD system", BTR Preparations website
- ^ "Global Vehicles", SAE International website
- ^ a b "Lancer Evolution VII brochure", .pdf file
- ^ "Lancer Evolution: Technological Marvel", Mitsubishi Motors North America press release