Audi is doing everything possible to avoid becoming stagnant, like some other German automakers we know, by constantly revealing new technology. Sometimes we see this technology at various auto shows, and other times we see it by way of patent leaks. Well this latest tech feature, which lays out an electric all-wheel-drive system, came to us by way of the latter.

As if Audi’s quattro AWD system wasn’t already awesome enough, the automaker is set to electrify the rear axle in its quattro-equipped cars. This system will have multiple benefits, with the most obvious being in the instantly available torque. The secondary benefit seems to be more of Audi’s focus, considering its patent is actually for software to control this rear axle.

This software will use wheel sensors to detect what speeds may lead to the wheels slipping and adjust the braking system accordingly. This means that Audi may be able to better control its regenerative braking system to avoid brake lockup in slippery conditions. This is a big deal because all current regen brake systems use fixed forces and are prone to locking up on slippery surface. This software will allow for brake regeneration without risking the wheels locking up.

In a nutshell, we may be looking at one of the most advanced and quickest-reacting all-wheel-drive systems ever dreamed up.

Click past the jump to read more about the next Audi Q8 E-Tron.