Magna International Inc has announced its role as development partner to Audi on the new quattro ultra all-wheel drive system. The next-generation AWD system was launched on the Audi A4 allroad in 2016 and provides reduced fuel consumption and emissions while also maximizing driving performance and stability.

Magna's Flex4 all-wheel drive technology forms the technical foundation of the quattro ultra system. The system was developed jointly by Magna and Audi to fit into vehicles with longitudinally mounted engines and dual-clutch or manual transmissions.

With this industry-first technology, it is now possible to have a true all-wheel-drive disconnect system that automatically activates all four wheels only when necessary, which is approximately 20 percent of all driving conditions.

In driving situations where there is no need for all-wheel drive, the rear axle drive is completely decoupled from the drivetrain, meaning the vehicle drives with its front wheels only. This true disconnect system goes beyond systems currently available on the market to reduce friction and transmission losses, consequently improving fuel efficiency and emissions. This solution also weighs less than permanent all-wheel drive, thereby achieving additional efficiency improvements.

(Continued on next page)