How will the move to electric impact the Jimny’s well known low range gearbox and off road capability?
The Jimny's 4x4 system and low range gearbox have helped build up a reputation as a mighty off roader, with excellent control and torque multiplication in the worst terrain. But with electric powertrain, the drivetrain architecture is fundamentally changed. Instant torque electric motors don't need a traditional gearbox which could make off road driving simpler. However, along with this comes the loss of the fine control of manual gear selection in a tricky situation. Engine braking may also be absent on descents on steep slopes. On the flip side electric powertrains might provide more precise torque vectoring and traction control. The question is whether the benefits of electric propulsion can offset the loss of traditional off road hardware and what that will mean to the Jimny’s performance in different off road situations.
Torque in electric motors is so high that you don’t need a low-range gearbox. It will most likely be able to crawl even better over obstacles!
No way, dude. Manual low range boxes just can’t be replaced. For serious off roading, EVs are too all or nothing.
In the software, they could implement a virtual low range mode. A motor control is used to simulate different gear ratios.
Electric motors have the instant torque, which might actually be too easy. The challenge is part of the fun of off roading.
Engine braking would be required, but on steep hills, it would be sketchy without it. Hopefully they have a good regenerative braking system.
Torque vectoring is possible with electric motors. It’s this kind of control that we dream of; imagine being able to control power to each wheel independently!
An electric drivetrain is simple, and when you're in the middle of nowhere, fewer things break. Reliability is a big plus for that.
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Discussions and Questions How Will The Move To Electric Impact The Jimnys Well Known Low Range Gearbox And Off Road Capability
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