What is eLSD?
The term eLSD stands for Electronic Limited Slip Differential. Dana Corporation has developed the Electronic Limited Slip Differential or eLSD technology. It bridges the gap between the full All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and a two-wheel-drive differential system. According to Dana, this system delivers maximum tractive effort and improves the drivability. It also enhances stability while cornering. Besides, the eLSD offers higher torque capacity and greater control.
Need For Electronic Limited Slip Differential:
Furthermore, an automobile may face the loss of traction on different road conditions. There may be ice on the road or the road may be slippery. This makes it difficult for a vehicle to navigate steadily on the ground. The wheels need more traction to go thru’ such road conditions. So, Dana engineers designed the eLSD or electronic limited-slip differential.
How eLSD works?
Furthermore, Dana’s eLSD makes use of proprietary software that analyzes the data from numerous vehicle sensors. The software determines the optimum torque corrections. It then calculates the required traction and distributes torque to improve handling.
The control unit monitors vehicle parameters through sensors to estimate the moment of wheel spin. The system activates pre-emptively when wheel slip is most likely to take place. The control unit then sends the signal to an electric motor that spins up and drives a ball assembly through a gear ratio. The ball assembly activates a clutch mechanism to limit the speed difference. It transfers torque to the wheel with good traction. The system also rectifies the undesirable driving actions such as over-steer and loss of traction within seconds.
Components:
The eLSD unit consists of the following components:
- Control unit
- Electric motor
- Ball assembly
- Clutch pack
Advantages of eLSD:
In situations such as starting from a standstill on a slippery surface, particularly ice, this technology is very beneficial. This is a bolt-on mechanism for any front-wheel-drive transaxle or rear-wheel-drive rear axle. The system disengages when not in use to improve efficiency.
Moreover, Dana’s eLSD technology exceeds the performance of a normal two-wheel drive open differential unit. However, it does not add an extra cost and eliminates the ineffectiveness of an all-wheel-drive system. According to Dana, this technology is ideal for passenger cars, SUVs, and crossovers alike. The Electronic Limited Slip Differential system provides maximum tractive effort and improves drivability.
All images – Courtesy: Dana Corporation
Watch Dana eLSD in action here:
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