Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Front-wheel drive (FWD) means propulsion torque is delivered to the vehicle’s front axle rather than its rear axle.
What it means in an EV
In a single-motor EV, the front drive unit commonly sends torque through reduction gearing and a differential to both front wheels. Those wheels must then provide propulsion or regenerative braking while also steering. Available tyre grip, motor and inverter limits, battery power, and brake blending determine how much torque can actually be used.
FWD does not identify the motor technology, the number of gear stages, or whether the vehicle platform was designed only for electric propulsion. A vehicle that can also drive its rear axle is classified as all-wheel drive even if it operates mainly through the front axle during some conditions.
For the broader motor and drive-unit context, see Electric Motors and Drive Units.