The Haldex clutch is an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch.

Driving forces are distributed across the axles variably and adaptively according to driving conditions. The general principle behind the Haldex is allocation of driving forces to the axle with the better traction. In this way, 4MOTION is able to perfectly respond to any driving situation in a flash . Despite this ability, the usual feel of a front-wheel drive vehicle is retained. The possibility of torsional stresses on the drive train during parking and maneuvering is eliminated. The Haldex clutch can also be combined without restriction with all driving dynamics control systems (ABS, EDL, ASR, EBD and ESC).

Power transmission between the front and rear axles is handled by the multi-plate clutch. Electronically actuated pumps regulate the pressure on clutch plates. As the exerted pressure increases, plate sets are pressed against each other. In this way power transmission between the sets of plates, and thus the distribution of power between the axles, can be regulated very precisely.

An electronic control unit compensates for slip, by varying rotation speed between the axles, and for other variables such as driving dynamics and torque. The electronic control unit takes into account other information such as speed, cornering and overrun or acceleration modes.