Vehicle Dynamics & Powertrain Flashcards
7 cards from real CAE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Vehicle Dynamics & Powertrain flashcards as text
What is the primary advantage of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) over a conventional stepped automatic?
Answer: Ability to keep the engine at its most efficient RPM across a range of vehicle speeds
A CVT uses a continuously adjustable ratio to hold the engine in its peak efficiency band regardless of vehicle speed, improving overall fuel economy.
How does increasing front anti-roll bar stiffness affect vehicle handling balance?
Answer: Increases understeer tendency by increasing front lateral load transfer
A stiffer front anti-roll bar transfers more lateral load to the outer front tire, reducing front cornering grip and promoting understeer.
In a dual-clutch transmission (DCT), how are odd and even gear ratios typically organized?
Answer: Odd gears on the outer clutch pack, even gears on the inner clutch pack with separate input shafts
A DCT has two concentric input shafts — one for odd gears and one for even gears — each with its own clutch, enabling pre-selection and near-instantaneous shifts.
What is 'camber thrust' in tire mechanics?
Answer: The lateral force a tire generates due to camber angle, independent of slip angle
Camber thrust is a lateral force produced by a tilted tire trying to roll in a circle, adding to or subtracting from cornering force depending on camber direction.
Which condition does a vehicle's 'scrub radius' most directly influence?
Answer: Steering feel and torque steer sensitivity under braking or acceleration
Scrub radius is the offset between the steering axis and the tire contact patch center; a large scrub radius amplifies drivetrain and braking forces into the steering column.
In a four-wheel-drive system, what is the role of the transfer case?
Answer: Splits engine torque between the front and rear driveshafts and provides low-range gearing
The transfer case divides torque between front and rear axles and typically offers a low-range gear reduction for off-road or high-torque situations.
What does a positive 'ackermann angle' geometry intend to achieve during low-speed cornering?
Answer: Inner front wheel steers at a greater angle than the outer to reduce tire scrub
Ackermann geometry angles the inner wheel more sharply so both front tires trace concentric arcs around the same turning center, minimizing scrub at low speeds.