DRIVE WHEELS Meaning and
Definition
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Drive wheels refers to the set of wheels in a motorized vehicle that provide power and propel the vehicle forward. This happens when the force generated by the engine or motor is transferred to the drive wheels through a transmission system. The drive wheels are typically connected to the vehicle's engine or motor through the drivetrain, which typically includes components such as the clutch, gearbox, differential, and axle.
In most vehicles, drive wheels are located at the rear or front of the vehicle, depending on the drive configuration. In rear-wheel drive vehicles, the power generated by the engine is transferred to the rear wheels, which propel the vehicle forward. This configuration is commonly found in trucks and certain sports cars. On the other hand, front-wheel drive vehicles have the engine's power transferred to the front wheels, which perform both the driving and steering functions. Front-wheel drive is commonly found in sedans and smaller vehicles.
Drive wheels play a crucial role in determining a vehicle's handling, traction, and overall performance. They are responsible for translating the power generated by the engine into motion, allowing the vehicle to move forward. Different types of drive wheels, such as two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive, can significantly impact a vehicle's traction and ability to navigate various terrains and driving conditions.
Etymology of DRIVE WHEELS
The word "drive" originated from the Old English word "drifan" which means "to drive, propel". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "dribanan". "Wheels", on the other hand, is derived from the Old English word "hweol" which comes from the Proto-Germanic word "hwehwlą". Both "drive" and "wheels" have evolved over time with various influences from different languages. When combined, "drive wheels" refers to the wheels responsible for propelling or powering a vehicle or machinery.
