What is the role of the differential in a vehicle?

The role of the differential in a vehicle is to allow for differences in wheel speed during turns. When a vehicle turns, the wheels on the outside of the turn travel a longer distance than those on the inside. The differential enables each wheel to rotate at different speeds, which is crucial for maintaining traction and stability. If the wheels were forced to turn at the same speed, it would result in scrubbing of the tires and could lead to loss of control or excessive tire wear.

The design of the differential ensures smooth operation during cornering, allowing for efficient handling and improved vehicle dynamics. This function is particularly important for vehicles with rear or front-wheel drives.