Torque Vectoring Plus

[hoonay]

I’ve optioned PTV Plus on my 4S (now in config freeze), and curious to hear anyone’s experience with it, good or bad. Although I’m locked into getting it at this point, in my excitement I’m constantly trying to learn more about what to expect from the drive, and there isn’t much firsthand driver info about how torque vectoring affects the ride. Thanks!

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[alxman]

Per google search:

AI Overview

Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) is a system that enhances vehicle dynamics and stability by distributing drive torque to the rear wheels using an electronically controlled rear-axle differential lock, applying brake pressure to the inside rear wheel when cornering.

Here's a more detailed explanation:

• How it works:
  When a Porsche equipped with PTV Plus enters a corner, the system applies brake pressure to the inside rear wheel, which in turn, directs more torque to the outside rear wheel.
  
  
• Benefits:
  This action induces a rotational pulse (yaw movement) around the vehicle's vertical axis, resulting in more direct and dynamic steering response, particularly during turn-in.
  
  
• Electronic Control:
  PTV Plus uses electronic control for fully variable torque distribution, unlike standard PTV which uses a mechanical rear differential lock.
  
  
• Models:
  PTV Plus is available on select Porsche models, including the 911 and Macan.
  
  
• Examples of other cars with torque vectoring:
  Audi RS 3 (RS Torque Splitter), Ferrari SF90 Stradale, Hyundai i30 N, VW Golf R and Polo GTI (XDS).
  

 

[hoonay]

Found a couple of informative (though old) threads about PTV in the Taycan forum. A bit of a mixed bag as to whether it makes any difference to everyday driving, but I’m still looking forward to having it when my build arrives in May/June.

This particular thread had some helpful discussion.

 

[ColdCase]

I have it because I read that it improves traction on a steep slippery (snowy) driveways and parking lots. The SA said that just about everyone that options Rear Axle Steering for handling performance, options PTV also.

Unlike RAS, I don't notice RTV in everyday driving. Some say the car feels a bit more responsive in every day driving. Dunno if the feel is worth it. Unless your everyday driving is 9 tenths you probably won't either.

There is a particularly nasty off camber and bumpy off ramp that the Macan just sticks to (in sport mode) that I think is helped by PTV. So its one of those things thats there when you need it for those rare unanticipated situations. It does affect weight distribution a bit I think.

On the track, perhaps a different story, but how much are you tracking a Macan..

I think the biggest disadvantage is, if it breaks, it is one of those expensive things to fix.

 

[PrudentOcean]

I think the biggest disadvantage is, if it breaks, it is one of those expensive things to fix.

There isn’t much that can break, PTV+ uses the inside rear disk brake to induce a yawing motion. And it’s not going to be heavy braking either.

 

[ColdCase]

There isn’t much that can break, PTV+ uses the inside rear disk brake to induce a yawing motion. And it’s not going to be heavy braking either.

The PTV in PTV+ is a mechanical LSD consisting of an electronically controlled clutch pack that limits torque to a wheel spinning faster than the other. This clutch pack is typically locked during launch or heavy throttle to get more power to the road. The + in PTV+ is adding the software for inner wheel braking for faster turn in. This stuff was used in F1 until it was banned. Donuts are much easier to do in PTV cars.

It is the PTV chunk of metal and gears in PTV+ that may be a pain to fix.

Basic stability control, which uses the ABS to brake one wheel or another based on YAW movements and steering angle has been around for decades.

Torque vectoring significantly enhances handling – but you may not notice the difference it makes unless you’ve driven the same car without it. The benefit of PTV+ is most noticeable on muddy or snow covered country roads.

 

[hoonay]

@ColdCase I optioned RAS, and your experience with PTV+, even if it’s kinda subtle, sounds worth it to me. Thanks!

 

[PrudentOcean]

I admit I don't know the actual components that are in the PTV+ system, but to me, having a clutch-based LSD in a PTV+ system doesn't make sense.

The LSD would want to limit the difference in the amount of torque going to the inside and outside wheel, but applying the brake to the inside rear wheel would want to increase it. Thus, an open differential would be better suited for a brake-based torque vectoring system.

 

[ColdCase]

Yes, Plus and LSD are two different things. The key thing here is PTV+ is a system that is entirely computer controlled. The previous limited slip diffs needed wheel spin or a difference in the axle rotation to engage. The PTV+ software is smart enough to apply the brake to the inside wheel in the turn and also apply diff lock for the turn exit, and modulate the two for the best effect. Otherwise you would need to do it yourself, and there are only a few of us with that skill set. Recall the two manual rear brake levers and diff switches and other stuff in dune buggies and rally cars?

The PTV+ software can lock up the diff any where between say 0% and 100% at any time.... e.g. at a standstill when launch control is set.

Jeep has used similar hardware and software for over a decade now in their higher end models and, with appropriate tires, they offer impressive snow, mud, beach, and ice performance.

If you don't drive your Macan in weather conditions that PTV+ is an advantage or aggressively, it is probably money not well spent.

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