Magna International Inc has announced that its Magna Powertrain operating unit is supplying an innovative all-wheel-drive (AWD) system for the new Mercedes-Benz GLA compact SUV as well as the A45 AMG and the CLA. The AWD system, called ProActive Rear Drive Module, is specifically designed as a platform solution for C-segment vehicles and achieves a high level of integration for an AWD coupling and rear axle drive.  This fully integrated system is claimed to significantly improve vehicle performance in terms of drag, torque, system efficiency and weight.

"As a long-time supplier partner of Mercedes-Benz, we are pleased to support their entire global platform with our ProActive AWD system," said Jake Hirsch, president, Magna Powertrain.  "We are confident that the performance enhancements enabled by this technology will add tremendous value to this vehicle segment."

The AWD system was jointly developed by Magna Powertrain and Daimler. The rear axle drive and the AWD coupling were developed by Magna Powertrain, and the integration into the vehicle was done by Daimler.

The high level of integration was achieved through the use of one common oil circuit to improve the coupling function in extreme conditions and downsize the packaging. In addition, the elimination of seal rings and bearings significantly reduces drag by approximately 14 percent, resulting in lower CO₂ emissions and decreases mass by more than 2kg or approximately a 10 percent improvement to achieve a new benchmark level for AWD systems.