Abstract: A low tension belt drive system, comprising a first pulley driven by a drive mechanism; a drive belt connected between a second pulley and the first pulley, the drive belt having an inner surface in contact with the first and second pulleys; a load belt connected between the drive belt and a driven load, a portion of the load belt having an inner surface contacting an outer surface of the drive belt; and an idler belt having a surface a portion of which is in contact with an outer surface of the load belt, whereby the idler belt is biased against the load belt. Increased friction reduces or eliminates slippage between the load belt and the drive belt while removing the need for a tensioned or toothed load belt in order to move accurately and repeatedly.