In vehicles where the front wheels provide both propulsion and steering, the braking system plays a crucial role in safe and efficient deceleration. These systems utilize various components, including discs, calipers, pads, and rotors, working in concert to convert kinetic energy into heat, thereby slowing the vehicle. A common configuration involves disc brakes on the front axle, often featuring ventilated rotors for improved heat dissipation due to the higher braking demands placed on the front wheels.
Concentrating braking force on the driven wheels offers several advantages. It leverages the weight transfer that occurs during deceleration, maximizing tire grip and braking efficiency. This design also simplifies the overall system layout, potentially reducing weight and complexity compared to systems in vehicles with different drivetrain configurations. Historically, this setup became increasingly prevalent with the rise of more compact and fuel-efficient vehicles where front-wheel drive offered packaging and economic advantages.
