Electronic Air Suspension

What it is:
Electronic Air Suspension provides the comfort of riding on air with adjustable spring rates and capability to change ride height and load-carrying ability. Under normal driving conditions, an electronic air suspension vehicle rides at the same height as a traditionally sprung vehicle. With a heavy load, ride height is increased automatically. On current vehicles, the suspension lowers the ride height by 20mm at highway speeds for improved aerodynamics, with about 2 percent better fuel economy. Lower ride height also can improve on-center feel of steering due to the change in suspension geometry and increased caster angle. On certain vehicles, the driver can lower the vehicle several inches for easier entry and exit (access mode).

How it works:
Instead of a coil or leaf spring, each corner of the vehicle is supported by an air spring (bladder). Shock absorbers are still required. With a constant quantity of air, each air bladder acts similarly to a normal spring. To increase vehicle ride height, more air is pumped into the bags by a pump. Air is released from the bags to decrease the height.

Customer benefit:
Improved ride, handling and fuel economy with ease in entering and leaving tall vehicles.

Industry status:
Currently in production.

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