Science project alert! Ferrari is hard at work on their “Insertable 4×4″ system, which looks to debut in the facelifted 612 Scaglietti. Our spy shot photographer, Hans Lehmann, caught the 4×4 612 in testing in Maranello, showing a meaner air intake setup that takes some cues from the 599 GTB Fiorano. Notice the stethoscope-like structures on the front wheels, which appear to be used to measure wheel slip to determine how much power to distribute to the front/rear.
With the facelift of the 612 Scaglietti there will also be a four wheel drive option, which is being tested on this prototype. The test equipment on the front wheels is needed to measure the degree of front wheel slip in order to properly calibrate the computer system controlling how much power is being transferred.
Ferrari has developed a new optional four-wheel drive system called “Insertable 4×4.” The system is made to maximize the performance for Ferraris sport cars under all conditions and will work for both mid-engine cars as well as for front-engine cars.
According to Ferrari the new system is based on the traditional RWD layout, with the second pair of wheels selectively connected via their new insertable transmission system. Instead of being an all time four-wheel drive system it should rather be viewed as a means of traction control. The all-wheel drive will only interfere when the rear wheels loose traction, and IF the option to have the all-wheel drive engaged is switched on.
The systems will only reduce drive train efficiency when they are in use, unlike the system used by Lamborghini. Furthermore, it will ensure that the new breed of Ferraris will have superb handling characteristics in all weather condition, with minimal understeering and oversteering.