Two-wheel drive (2WD) is a drivetrain system in which the engine powers only two of the vehicle's wheels at a time, either the front two wheels (front- wheel drive, FWD) or the rear two wheels (rear-wheel drive, RWD)
. This means that only one axle-the front or the rear-is responsible for delivering power and torque from the engine to move the vehicle forward
. 2WD vehicles are common and typically lighter, simpler, and more fuel- efficient than four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles because they only power two wheels rather than all four
. They are well-suited for driving on dry, paved roads and highways, making them popular for everyday use and city driving
. The main distinctions are:
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Power is sent to the front wheels. This layout is common in many passenger cars and SUVs, offering good fuel efficiency and lower manufacturing costs
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Power is sent to the rear wheels. This configuration is often used in pickup trucks, sports cars, and service vehicles, providing better balance and handling under acceleration but less traction on slippery surfaces
While 2WD vehicles perform well on regular roads, they provide less traction in off-road, snowy, or slippery conditions compared to 4WD or AWD systems, which power all four wheels
. In summary, 2WD means only two wheels receive engine power, either front or rear, making the system simpler, lighter, and more fuel-efficient but less capable in challenging driving conditions