(autoinsidernews) - Spy photographer Hans Lehmann snapped a few images of Ferrari's 612 Scaglietti featuring the automaker's Insertable 4X4 system. The Insertable 4X4″ system is riding under a slightly facelifted 612, with more aggressive air intakes. Note the test equipment on the front wheels, which is there to measure front wheel slip for calibration of the 4X4's the computer, reports Trend.
Ferrari new system is rear-wheel biased, with the power being directed to the fronts only if rear wheel slip is detected, AND if the AWD is switched on. Ferrari's Insertable 4X4″ system is more like a traction control system than true all-wheel drive, but where traction control cuts power to the wheels, Ferrari system delivers power to another set of wheels. Ferrari's system will also reduce drivetrain losses because it will only engage in certain conditions, unlike a true all-wheel drive system like that used by Lamborghini. The new technology should ensure that new Ferraris will maintain their superb handling characteristics in all weather conditions.