In addition to axle kinematics, MEYLE’s chassis and steering experts also designed axle components such as transverse control arms, tie rods, steering gears and connections to the wheel carrier to meet the specifications and heavy demands of drift sports. Among other things, the length and shape of the transverse control arm was adapted to the special requirements of drifting. The drift vehicle with the axle components installed will be on display at the DRIFT UNITED stand (Hall 5, Stand C10) at the Essen Motor Show.
In drifting, the fine art of vehicle control, the chassis and steering parts in particular must deliver maximum performance. To withstand the extremely high loads and minimise wear, these components are specifically designed for the drift vehicle to ensure control during drifting and allow the desired degree of oversteer. The joint development of MEYLE and DRIFT UNITED focused in particular on axis geometry: These were developed by MEYLE engineers for the special drift vehicle – also a unique specimen consisting of the body of the Mercedes Benz C-Class W204 and the powertrain of the Mercedes Benz E 55 AMG. “Controlled drifting on a professional level is not possible with normal steering. This requires a specially designed transverse control arm, which enables a high steering angle and therefore a larger drift angle.Normally, 40 degrees is the limit for road vehicles,” says Martin Montag, founder of DRIFT UNITED. Adjustments to the shape of the transverse control arm in track width and length enable the necessary extension and therefore also more targeted control over the vehicle.
“With MEYLE, we have had a strong partner at our side since 2018, who supports us with comprehensive engineering know-how and can develop and manufacture the right solution for us”. In close cooperation with the experts at DRIFT UNITED, MEYLE developed the prototype for an individual transverse control arm that allows the steering angle to be extended to up to 60 degrees. The development was carried out in close coordination with DRIFT UNITED and the professional drivers – so the insights from the drift scene were directly incorporated into the development of the axle. The prototype of the transverse control arm is truly unique and is used exclusively in the individually assembled Mercedes Benz vehicle.
Between December 1st and 9th 2018, DRIFT UNITED will also be exhibiting the winning vehicles of the 2018 drift season in Essen. The ESSEN MOTOR SHOW is Europe’s largest and most important performance show for tuning, motor sports, sporty production vehicles, classic cars and motorcycles. Every year around 500 exhibitors present their dream range of automobiles to car fans who value the temperament, power and individuality of their vehicles at the ESSEN MOTOR SHOW.
