Interview: John Zalewski, Global Product Manager, Magna Powertrain

The safety benefits that four-wheel drive (4WD) systems can provide have been recognised for some time now, but with regulations imposing stricter standards on OEMs to develop more fuel-efficient vehicles, these drivetrains have evolved from continuous all-wheel power, to intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD) systems. Particular wheels and even complete axles can be disengaged when optimum traction is not necessary, but then quickly engage when needed.

However, the evolution of AWD is founded on more than improving fuel economy. Automotive World spoke to John Zalewski, Global Product Manager at Magna Powertrain, to understand more about how the latest AWD technology can help to keep drivers safe on the road and its growing interaction with active safety sensors.