Clutch pack torque vectoring, as employed by Hyundai in this patent, is less common than other forms of torque vectoring but has been seen in gas-powered cars like the Ford Focus RS, Mercedes-AMG CLA 45, and Audi RS3.
Hyundai’s example works on much the same principle. It features a clutch on each side of the axle. Torque applied to each clutch – and, therefore, each wheel – is independently controlled. Actuation of the clutch plate and clutch disc are performed hydraulically, and when coasting, the drive torque can temporarily be blocked from the motor to enhance efficiency.
Several factors can determine how much torque is necessary or when to apply it per wheel, be it vehicle speed, accelerator/brake pedal sensors, steering angle, lateral G forces, and more.
All of this will hopefully allow Hyundai (and by extension, Kia) to imbue its electric vehicles with a higher level of driver engagement that has often been the preserve of gas-powered models. As the patent states, “the vehicle may be driven stably even if the vehicle turns or slides on any one wheel.”
