EVS EXPLAINED OFF ROAD: DUAL MOTOR VS TRI MOTOR VS QUAD MOTOR - LOCKING DIFFS VS VIRTUAL LOCKERS

EV Channels Review

This video effectively contrasts the off-road powertrain control logic of four distinct electric pickup trucks: the Chevrolet Silverado EV (Dual Motor), Ford F-150 Lightning (Dual Motor with rear locker), Tesla Cybertruck (Tri-Motor Cyberbeast), and Rivian R1T (Quad-Motor). The reviewer highlights the limitations of open differentials, as demonstrated by the Silverado EV's inability to climb the test hill without significant throttle and brake intervention. The F-150 Lightning showcases the clear advantage of a physical rear locking differential for consistent traction. The Tesla Cybertruck, despite lacking its final software update for the front locker, performs surprisingly well using brake-based torque vectoring and its independent rear motors, though it struggles with rapid grip changes. The Rivian R1T's quad-motor system, while offering impressive articulation thanks to its sway bars, requires substantial throttle input due to its software's limitation on individual motor power output, making it less intuitive than a traditional locker for extreme situations. The reviewer concludes that while software-controlled systems offer potential, physical locking differentials provide superior predictability and consistency for off-road scenarios.