BorgWarner (NYSE: BWA) has secured a contract to supply its torque-on-demand transfer case with mechanical lock, known as Mlock TOD, for a full-size SUV being developed by an unnamed Chinese OEM, according to a company press release. Production is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026.

The Mlock TOD system combines torque-on-demand four-wheel drive with a mechanical lock mode, allowing the vehicle to operate across a range of driving conditions, including off-road use. The system is designed to distribute torque without requiring the driver to manually select drive modes, unlike traditional part-time four-wheel drive systems.

Henk Vanthournout, Vice President of BorgWarner and President and General Manager of Drivetrain and Morse Systems, noted the company has maintained a 20-year relationship with the customer. "The Mlock TOD featured in this program combines torque-on-demand four-wheel drive with mechanical lock modes, helping address a wide range of driving conditions while enhancing off-road capability, handling and safety," he said.

BorgWarner said the product is based on an existing design and is supported by local engineering and manufacturing capabilities in China.