BorgWarner Introduces the NexTrac System - What's Next in All-Wheel Drive Systems

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Sept. 24, 2008 - BorgWarner's NexTrac(R) system, the company's latest all-wheel drive (AWD) system, offers compact design, improved performance and lower weight for enhanced stability, traction, fuel efficiency, and the fun driving experience drivers crave. Born from BorgWarner's experience in producing over 1,000,000 AWD clutches since 1998, the NexTrac(R) system is a high-performance, electronically controlled, all-wheel drive system designed to meet the growing front-wheel-drive-based crossover, sport-utility and passenger car vehicle markets. The NexTrac(R) system debuts on the 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe, Tucson and KIA Sportage.

"BorgWarner's NexTrac(R) system is the next step in all-wheel drive systems," said Dan CasaSanta, President and General Manager, BorgWarner TorqTransfer Systems. "For OEMs, the NexTrac(R) system delivers improved fuel efficiency in a scalable, compact design. For drivers, the NexTrac(R) system offers improved stability, traction and agility, adding up to an exciting and safe driving experience."

The latest product in the i-Trac(R) series created exclusively for FWD/AWD products, the NexTrac(R) system features proprietary organic friction materials developed by BorgWarner Transmission Systems for smooth response and less noise. To promote fuel economy, engineers optimized the system's size and weight within a scalable design so that it can be offered in various sizes, based on vehicle segment, torque requirement and package criteria. Because the primary and secondary clutches in the system can be individually tuned, the NexTrac(R) system offers best-in-class drag torque performance, contributing to better fuel economy. To reduce cost and improve heat dissipation, the compact clutch housing is made of lightweight aluminum. Finally, the NexTrac(R) system is controlled by an ECU that manages driving torque and is able to detect loss of traction to prevent wheel slippage, assuring instant response in nearly every driving situation.

BorgWarner TorqTransfer Systems is a leading independent global designer and producer of transfer cases and torque management devices for all-wheel drive passenger cars, crossover vehicles, sports-utility vehicles and light trucks. These systems enhance vehicle stability, security, and drivability.