Patent ID: 8165767
Filing Date: 2012-04-24
Classification: B60K,B60W

Abstract:
1. A method for controlling a powertrain that directs power from an engine and a transmission to all four wheels or to just front wheels or to just rear wheels, the method comprising: monitoring information transmitted over a communications network; determining whether one or more components of the powertrain are in an active condition or in an inactive condition, wherein said one or more components of the powertrain are in said inactive condition when said one or more components are not connected to the transmission and are not connected to the front wheels or the rear wheels and wherein said one or more components of the powertrain are in said active condition when said one or more components are connected to the transmission and are connected to the front wheels or the rear wheels; and switching said one or more components of the powertrain between said inactive condition and said active condition based only on said information from said communications network and without intervention from a user.