A newly disclosed patent application from Ford suggests that the automotive manufacturer is contemplating the development of a line lock system for all-wheel-drive vehicles.
Initially introduced in the 2015 Mustang model, Ford’s line lock feature was designed for rear-wheel drive vehicles. This system locks the front brakes, allowing the rear wheels to spin freely while keeping the vehicle stationary. This function is particularly useful in drag racing, as it enables drivers to perform burnouts to warm up the tires prior to taking position at the starting line. Additionally, it allows drivers to easily generate tire smoke under varying circumstances.
Table of Contents
Overview of the Nissan Sentra
2015 Ford Mustang’s Electronic Line Lock System
The core challenge in implementing a line lock system for all-wheel-drive vehicles stems from the need to lock one set of brakes, thus immobilizing the wheels on one axle. However, Ford’s patent application, published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on September 26, 2023, and originally filed on November 23, 2020, outlines a potential solution.
Instead of attempting to spin all wheels simultaneously, the patent application details the use of a controller to selectively brake certain wheels while allowing others to spin. This alternating process would warm up each tire individually. This could be achieved either by applying the brakes to both wheels on a single axle, or by braking one wheel while allowing its opposite counterpart to spin on the same axle.
Ford’s All-Wheel-Drive Line Lock Patent Imagery
For vehicles equipped with mechanical all-wheel-drive systems, Ford’s patent also indicates that the wheels on a particular axle could be temporarily disconnected from the drivetrain when they are not being spun. The application discusses compatibility with vehicles featuring “a power plant, such as an engine,” as well as those propelled by “an electric machine.” In the latter scenario, electrical power would be selectively channeled to the wheels that are in spinning mode, while bypassing the braked wheels.
While patents do not necessarily lead to commercialized products, an all-wheel-drive line lock system could align well with performance electric vehicles (EVs). Ford’s existing portfolio includes the Mustang Mach-E GT, with the Mach-E Rally soon to be released. Additionally, Ford has unveiled a high-performance concept for the F-150 Lightning, which could potentially follow in the footsteps of the original gasoline-powered F-150 Lightning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ford all-wheel-drive line lock
What is the main subject of the article?
The main subject of the article is Ford’s recent patent application for an all-wheel-drive line lock system, which suggests that the company is considering this technology for future vehicles.
What is a line lock system and why is it significant?
A line lock system is traditionally used in rear-wheel-drive vehicles to lock the front brakes, allowing the rear wheels to spin freely while the vehicle remains stationary. This is particularly beneficial for warming up tires before drag racing. Ford’s consideration of such a system for all-wheel-drive vehicles represents an innovative approach to the technology.
When was the patent application originally filed and when was it published?
The patent application was originally filed on November 23, 2020, and was published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on September 26, 2023.
How does Ford propose to implement line lock in all-wheel-drive vehicles?
According to the patent application, Ford proposes using a controller to selectively apply brakes to certain wheels while allowing others to spin. This could be done by braking both wheels on one axle or braking individual wheels, thereby warming up each tire individually.
What types of vehicles could potentially benefit from this technology?
While the patent application doesn’t guarantee commercialization, the technology could be particularly useful for performance electric vehicles (EVs). Ford already has models like the Mustang Mach-E GT in its lineup, which could potentially benefit from an all-wheel-drive line lock system.
Does Ford already offer any vehicles with a line lock system?
Yes, Ford introduced a line lock system in its 2015 Mustang model, designed for rear-wheel-drive vehicles. This system allows for easy burnouts by locking the front brakes and allowing the rear wheels to spin freely.
Does the patent specify the type of power plants that can use this technology?
Yes, the patent application mentions that the technology could be compatible with vehicles featuring a traditional internal combustion engine as well as those propelled by an electric machine. In electric vehicles, electrical power would be directed to the wheels that are spinning, bypassing the braked wheels.
More about Ford all-wheel-drive line lock
- Ford’s Official Website
- United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
- Overview of the 2015 Ford Mustang Line Lock System
- Introduction to All-Wheel-Drive Systems
- Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Official Page
- History of Ford’s Performance Vehicles
- Understanding Electric Vehicle Technology
- The Basics of Drag Racing
- Ford F-150 Lightning Concept Overview
8 comments
The controller mechanism sounds intriguing. I’m guessing software will play a huge role in this? Would love to see the code behind it.
hold up, a line lock for all-wheel-drive? That’s like a dream come true for drag racers. Ford’s really stepping up their game.
patents don’t always mean it’ll happen, but man I hope it does. The Mach-E would be wild with this.
Wonder how much this kind of innovation will add to the cost of a new vehicle. Could be a selling point or a deal breaker.
If Ford pulls this off, they’ll be setting a new industry standard. Eager to see if this makes it past the patent stage.
Interesting that they’re looking at this tech for EVs too. Performance and eco-friendly? sign me up.
I’m a bit skeptical. Sounds cool but how practical is it for everyday driving? Not everyone’s into drag racing you know.
Wow, this is next level stuff from Ford. All-wheel drive and line lock? can’t wait to see this on the road!