Any press release containing the words "Building on our successful launch on the 2007 Chrysler Pacifica" has a bit of a credibility problem. Fortunately, BorgWarner's spinmeisters aren't talking about the Pacifica itself. They're lauding the front wheel all-wheel drive system currently underpinning [dust collecting] upmarket examples of DCX's proto-CUV. ITM 3e is the first all wheel-drivery to reduce power to the rear wheels at highway speeds to improve fuel economy. It's yet another clever gizmo from the boffins who bring you the world's best paddle shifter (DSG). Anyway, this press release on BorgWarner's alphanumeric festival of torque-managed traction control tells us their grip-securing gee-whizzery will now migrate to the 2007 Sebring and 2008 Avenger. DCX aversive buyers needn't feel excluded; the company also sells its greasy bits to Ford, VW/Audi, DaimlerChrysler, General Motors, Toyota, Renault/Nissan, Hyundai/Kia, Honda, Caterpillar and Peugeot.
Press Release:
BorgWarner All-Wheel Drive System to Debut in 2007 Chrysler Sebring and 2008 Dodge Avenger
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Feb. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — The 2007 Chrysler Sebring and 2008 Dodge Avenger will offer BorgWarner's Interactive Torque Management (ITM 3e(TM)) system as an option for drivers who value performance, fuel economy and stability. The sophisticated technology, which debuted last year, is the latest, next-generation interactive technology available as part of BorgWarner's growing iTrac(TM) torque management systems portfolio, a full- line of active torque management devices focused on the needs of the expanding front-wheel drive/all-wheel drive market.
"We are proud to launch another front-wheel, all-wheel drive application with DaimlerChrysler, using BorgWarner's new ITM 3e(TM) system," said Cindy Niekamp, President and General Manager, BorgWarner TorqTransfer Systems. "Building on our successful launch on the 2007 Chrysler Pacifica, adapting this technology to additional applications was the natural progression. As a global leader in advanced front-wheel drive-based all-wheel drive technology, we are pleased to provide the next generation of Chrysler and Dodge drivers with the enhanced vehicle traction, stability and handling that the system offers."
In addition to providing the ITM 3e(TM) hardware, BorgWarner will also supply the electronics, software controls, and vehicle integration support. These capabilities are core competencies of BorgWarner and provide automakers like Chrysler Group with outstanding vehicle performance.
The ITM 3e(TM) system exercises sophisticated controls and algorithms to sense slip, and seamlessly converts the front-wheel drive-based platform to all-wheel drive within milliseconds. This augments vehicle handling by optimizing traction of both the front and rear wheels. At highway speeds, the system automatically reduces power transfer to the rear wheels, which improves fuel economy versus other all-wheel drive systems. In addition, the ITM 3e(TM) system is designed to work in cooperation with other vehicle systems like anti-lock brakes and electronic stability programs to further enhance traction and stability.
Auburn Hills, Michigan-based BorgWarner Inc. (NYSE:BWA) is a product leader in highly engineered components and systems for vehicle powertrain applications worldwide. The FORTUNE 500 company operates manufacturing and technical facilities in 63 locations in 18 countries. Customers include Ford, VW/Audi, DaimlerChrysler, General Motors, Toyota, Renault/Nissan, Hyundai/Kia, Honda, BMW, Caterpillar, Navistar International, and Peugeot. The Internet address for BorgWarner is: http://www.borgwarner.com/.
Related:
Porsche Working up Seven-Speed DSG for Entire Line [internal]