4 Types of Drive Systems in Cars, What Are They?

The development of car drive systems has been rapid along with the times. This is done to enhance driving comfort. Thus, car users can choose a car with a drive system that suits their needs. Each of these drive systems has its own advantages in tackling road conditions. Instead of being curious, let's find out the types of drive systems in cars in more detail as follows.

Types of Drive Systems in Cars

Currently, the drive systems in cars are divided into several types. Here are the complete types.

1. Front Wheel Drive (FWD)

The first type is the front wheel drive system, commonly known as FWD (Front Wheel Drive). As the name suggests, this type of drive system uses the two front wheels of the car as the main driving force. The FWD system technology is combined with the engine that is positioned transversely at the front of the car. This drive system is usually easy to find in sedan, city car, hatchback, SUV, and MPV types of cars.

The FWD system has been in use since 1934. To this day, the FWD system is still used by the latest car models, such as the Daihatsu Sigra. The advantage of the FWD system is its ability to traverse slippery roads with maximum traction and grip. Additionally, the FWD system can also save fuel consumption due to its lighter weight.

2. Rear Wheel Drive (RWD)

The second type is the rear wheel drive system or RWD (Rear Wheel Drive). As the name implies, the RWD system uses the rear wheels of the car to drive the vehicle. The use of the RWD system in four-wheeled vehicles has been around long before the FWD system was invented. Nowadays, the EWD system is still used in several cars, such as the Daihatsu Xenia and Daihatsu Terios. The advantage of the RWD system is its ability to tackle inclines without losing grip.

3. Four Wheel Drive (4WD)

The next type is the four wheel drive system or 4WD. The 4WD system has a different working mechanism from the FWD or RWD systems. For power distribution, the 4WD system distributes power to all four wheels of the car. The 4WD system has several working mechanisms such as AWD, full-time, and part-time. This way, you can adjust the drive system according to your needs when traversing straight and flat roads, muddy terrain, or steep inclines.

4. All Wheel Drive (AWD)

The last type is the all wheel drive system, known as AWD (All Wheels Drive). The AWD system has a very complex working mechanism because the power distributed must be evenly divided among all wheels. This power distribution occurs because the AWD system has a center differential. This component is responsible for maintaining the balance of movement among each wheel, ensuring comfort and safety when the car speeds up.

Additionally, this system will work continuously and automatically, so it cannot be controlled manually like the 4WD system. Therefore, the AWD system is only used for sports-type cars.

Thus, here are some types of drive systems in cars that you need to know. By understanding these types, you can purchase a car with a drive system that suits your travel needs.

If you intend to look for a car for off-road purposes, you can buy a car with a 4WD system. For road trip needs on hilly terrain, you can buy a car with an RWD system. Meanwhile, for daily urban needs, you can buy a car with an FWD system.