Eaton Touts Faster Electronic Limited-Slip Differential

Eaton Corp. says its new electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD) is more than twice as fast (100-millisecond actuation versus 250 milliseconds) as the EGeorodisc system the company launched in 2004.

The quicker response will optimize overall efficiency, traction and comfort, Eaton says. The system also minimizes energy losses from braking and throttle interventions when a vehicle’s electronic stability control system is applied. The new system, dubbed IntelliTrac, will debut next year in an unnamed high-torque model in North America.

IntelliTrac is suitable for front- or rear-drive architectures across a wide range of vehicle sizes. It costs less than half as much as traditional all-wheel- and four-wheel-drive systems, according to the supplier. It also can be packaged within a vehicle’s existing axle housing without requiring a propshaft tunnel.

Eaton will continue to offer EGeorodisc for low-cost applications. The company attributes IntelliTrac’s improved performance to a new DC electric motor, piston pump and accumulator. The system also features integrated temperature/pressure sensors and upgraded control algorithms to more precisely monitor traction conditions and distribute the necessary torque to each wheel. New friction materials on the clutch plates enhance durability.

The company cites data from WardsAuto indicating about 25% of light vehicles produced in North America are equipped with either limited-slip or locking differentials.