Unique S-AWC (Super-All Wheel Control) enables anyone to drive comfortably with peace of mind
We utilized the 4WD technology developed by our predecessor companies through the four-wheel drive prototypes and the Mitsubishi Jeep. Throughout the years, we evolved and optimized the 4WD system in our vehicles such as pickup trucks, cross-country SUVs, and passenger cars, enabling customers to drive comfortably anywhere with peace of mind.
Our technology is refined through rigorous testing in various weather conditions and on various road surfaces. Meanwhile, we also honed our skills in motorsports such as the Dakar Rally and the World Rally Championship.
Among various 4WD systems, the S-AWC (Super-All Wheel Control) best embodies the ideal of MITSUBISHI MOTORS. The system dramatically improves the handling and stability of a vehicle by continuously and seamlessly controlling vehicle movements during accelerating, cornering and braking without giving driver a sense of discomfort. The S-AWC demonstrates an excellent driving performance on slippery road conditions such as off-road and in snow, and also supports drivers to drive comfortably on a daily basis. We will continue to enhance S-AWC and other 4WD systems in pursuit of making vehicles that can be driven comfortably anywhere with peace of mind.
S-AWC for twin-motor 4WD
The S-AWC system on the twin-motor 4WD with independent front and rear motors distributes the front and rear driving force, and the brake activated Active Yaw Control (AYC) manages the driving force of the left and right wheels.
By equipping the motors in the front and rear, it is possible to eliminate such mechanical connection as the propeller shafts that connect the front and rear axles, the center differential that distributes the driving force of the front and rear wheels in a conventional 4WD system, and the transmission. This feature has made it possible to use the motors’ excellent response characteristics to change the front and rear torque distribution instantly and freely, thus reducing the weight and energy loss of the system.
In the Outlander PHEV model, raising the output of the front and rear motors to 85 kW and 100 kW respectively has bolstered the driving force of the front and rear wheels. It is possible to distribute the driving force more freely among the front and rear wheels, greatly improving road performance in various weather and road conditions.
Also, braking control of AYC that was previously only applied on the front wheels is added to the rear wheels as well. Distributing brake control to all four wheels reduces the braking force on each individual tire, making it possible to utilize AYC to even greater effect on slippery roads.
System Configuration of the Outlander PHEV model
Ideal longitudinal torque distribution made possible by twin motors
During the development process of the LANCER EVOLUTION X, MITSUBISHI MOTORS pursued and derived ideal longitudinal torque distribution. Until then, we relied on physical differentials to distribute the driving force of the front and rear wheels. Therefore, the number of rotations of the front and rear axles was constrained, and this ideal front-rear driving force distribution was limited to theoretical values. The twin-motor 4WD frees the mechanical restraint of the front and rear wheels, and enables us to achieve the ideal drive distribution
In addition to this, we conducted dedicated functional tuning of the system that optimizes drive torque and regenerative torque, the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and the Active Stability Control system (ASC). The ABS prevents tires from locking when sudden braking is applied, making it easier to avoid obstacles by turning the steering wheel, while the ASC guides the vehicle in a stable direction. These technologies enhances the driving stability of the vehicle, enables control as desired, and supports safe and comfortable driving on various road conditions.
Difference from other companies’ independent longitudinal torque distribution systems
Other automotive companies have also adopted systems of flexibly controlling the longitudinal torque, but we believe setting a goal for an ideal balance of longitudinal torque distribution is most important to create a car drivable for anyone, anywhere, with peace of mind and comfort. In the S-AWC, the twin-motor 4WD enables the ideal balance of longitudinal torque distribution, which can only be achieved by MITSUBISHI MOTORS.
Drive modes
The driver can select the suitable drive mode according to road conditions, driving conditions, and preference.
Normal: For normal driving
This mode balances driving performance with fuel efficiency for a variety of road environments and driving styles.
Tarmac: For dry paved roads
This mode is for brisk acceleration response and cornering on mountainous and other winding roads.
Gravel: For unpaved and wet roads
This mode provides powerful traction performance and high stability on gravel and other unpaved roads to perform as intended by the driver even in poor conditions.
Snow: For slippery roads
This mode provides suitable control for snowy and other slippery roads to provide ease of mind with little slippage.
Mud: For muddy roads and deep snow
This mode delivers better road handling by optimizing the slip ratio of the tires according to the speed of the vehicle on muddy roads, deep snow, and other poor surface conditions. Use this mode for more ability to escape when the vehicle is stuck.
Eco: Environmentally-friendly and economical
This setting improves the efficiency of the gasoline engine and 4WD to support fuel efficient driving.
Power: To maximize acceleration performance
This mode harnesses the best possible acceleration performance and response for maneuvers such as passing other vehicles on expressways.