The use of technology is accelerating just as quickly in the automotive industry as it is across other sectors. For four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles, there is plenty of emerging and developing technology that’s already set to shape the 4x4s of tomorrow.
As lifelong 4×4 enthusiasts and a source of all the upgrades serious off-roaders hold dear, we couldn’t be more excited for what the future has in store for the market. Without further ado, we bring to you the future of four-wheel drive…
Off-roading is about to become electric
The shift to electric vehicles (EVs) may be old news, with the impending ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles wreaking havoc as we approach the 2030 deadline. But with many modern-day EVs not quite there yet, most drivers aren’t taking the ban as seriously as they should. That was until the latest advancements in electric and hybrid 4×4 vehicles.
With electric and hybrid 4x4s already available, this future-proof vehicle type is unlocking efficient, eco-friendly options in this ever-popular class, even when it comes to an activity traditionally reserved for internal combustion engines (ICEs).
Electric 4x4s are proving themselves in the off-road market with significant success, bringing forward a list of advantages when driving off the beaten track. MotorBiscuit explains more about just one of the features that’s putting electric 4x4s ahead of the pack:
“Vehicles of any kind face two main challenges off-road: producing high torque at low speed and distributing that power to the tire/s that has the most traction. Many ICEs must rev above 4,000 RPMs to reach their full torque potential; ICE vehicles need crawler-speed first gears or low-range differentials to off-road. Electric engines, however, can leverage all available torque while creeping along at one RPM: EVs are naturally much more capable of navigating off-road terrain.”
Self-driving tech is getting more sophisticated
With Jaguar Land Rover’s recent developments in self-driving technology, the future of 4x4s is looking a little less hands-on. The brand has been busy collaborating with the University of Birmingham to develop an entirely autonomous system, even when driving off the road.
Their self-drive prototypes feature a large number of cameras, sensors, radar and LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) tools to examine surroundings in greater detail than ever. Surface characteristics and weather conditions are just two of the elements that can be carefully analysed with this tech.
Advancements in the field have seen Jaguar Land Rover overcome the challenges that are holding self-drive capabilities back to make the move to autonomy inevitable for 4x4s and other vehicle types.
Forget electric! Hydrogen may just become the fuel you need
Whilst there’s a lot of focus on how 4x4s can be developed to deliver performance and safety using electricity, the first hydrogen-powered vehicle is reportedly on the cusp of completion with several manufacturers currently working on their own cutting-edge systems. Just like electrically powered vehicles, these hydrogen-fuelled models are being developed to reduce emissions and improve air quality in the world’s most built-up areas.
With promises of high energy density, rapid refuelling, minimal loss of range, and usability in hot or cold climates, the hydrogen-powered systems currently in development have a lot to live up to as well as a lot more to bring to the automotive market.
You don’t have to wait until the future to enjoy the 4×4 driving experience you desire. Here’s why you should upgrade your existing 4×4 rather than replace it for better performance, safety or control right now.
