Development of the 4WD system & components for the new TOYOTA RAV4

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Development of the 4WD system & components for the new TOYOTA RAV4

Schuermanns, Ralf

The 'Fashionable Compact SUV' market segment that has been pioneered by TOYOTA with the launch of the 1st RAV4 back in 1994 is still growing continuously. Many compact SUVs are entering the European market, using the RAV4 as a benchmark. In addition, expectations of drivers continue to grow in terms of driving performance, interior space, and superior utility. Considering this condition in the market, the new RAV4 draws its inspiration from the best features found in passenger vehicles and off-road SUVs. The newly developed RAV4 adopts a 4WD system called 'Active Torque Control 4WD'. Torque is distributed optimally between the front and rear wheels depending on vehicles' condition; speed, road condition etc. At the heart of the system is an electronically controlled coupling that is integrated with other systems such as Electric Power Steering (EPS), brake control system and traction control system, resulting in the ability to confidently navigate rough roads, grip slippery road surfaces, and sail through winding mountain passes with brisk performance and very precise control. Due to such ability, this system is the most optimal for realizing the 'FLEXIBILITY' development target. All the components of the 4WD System have been designed to be 'COMPACT' & 'LIGHT WEIGHT'. The designs have not been restricted by any conventional structure so that optimal structures & specifications could be applied.