How do Limited-Slip Differentials (LSDs) and locking differentials differ?

Limited-Slip Differentials (LSDs) and locking differentials serve distinct roles in vehicle traction and handling. The correct answer highlights that LSDs work by transferring power from a spinning wheel to the other wheel on the same axle. This is particularly useful when one wheel on an axle has less traction than the other, such as on slippery surfaces. The LSD allows for some degree of wheel speed differentiation while still directing power to the wheel that has better grip, enhancing traction without completely locking the axles together.

Locking differentials, on the other hand, can lock the two wheels on the same axle together, effectively forcing them to rotate at the same speed. This is beneficial in off-road scenarios where maximum traction is required, as both wheels will have equal power regardless of their individual grip levels.

Understanding this distinction helps clarify how each system is utilized in different driving conditions—LSDs offer a more controlled response suitable for both on-road and off-road applications, while locking differentials are typically employed when maximum traction is imperative, particularly in off-road environments. This context reinforces why the differentiation of power transfer between the two is a pivotal factor in their functionality.