On Tuesday, German luxury car manufacturer Porsche announced a collaboration with ClearMotion to verify the effectiveness of the U.S. startup’s active suspension technology and road-sensing software. Additionally, the companies revealed the signing of a licensing agreement for ClearMotion’s technology. While ClearMotion CEO Zack Anderson refrained from specifying the Porsche models that could integrate their technology, he assured Reuters that it could be seamlessly implemented in both electric and combustion-engine vehicles without necessitating redesigns. Anderson highlighted the system’s ability to rapidly process sensor data, anticipate road conditions, and minimize chassis impact.
The ClearMotion system uses a small module containing an actuator and power electronics placed in each wheel’s well. Two electric motors drive the actuator, which builds up actuating forces on the dampers at lightning speed. Unlike conventional air springs, the dampers also function as anti-roll bars. The system obtains the actuating force from the car’s high-voltage battery.
The company said that ClearMotion’s patented technology cancels unwanted motion in cars and reduces movement inside the vehicle by about 75%. This results in a ride quality that is notably smoother and safer than the best available technology. The company says it can also reduce vibrations by up to 50%.
At the same time, the system allows for a much greater bandwidth between driving comfort and dynamic handling. The vertical dynamics, which control the car’s body movements, are a vital example. Typically, a car squats when it accelerates or brakes, compromising riding comfort and traction. In comparison, the Porsche Taycan can automatically rise by 55 millimeters when the doors open to make it easier to get in and out.
Another example is how the system can instantly reduce the roll stiffness when a driver hits a curb on a race track. This enables Kern’s curb-hopping shenanigans while preserving the car’s cornering capability.
The system can also adapt to different road surfaces by adjusting the damping force in real-time. This is possible because the dampers for compression and rebound can be set independently. This is a big deal because it translates to an extensive range of performance, from comfort to sporty driving.
Anderson said that ClearMotion is talking to numerous other automakers, including those in Europe and America, and expects to announce at least one more customer publicly next year. He added that the company currently has a factory in China and plans to establish production close to future customers. It has raised US$350 million from investors, including venture capital firm New Enterprise Associates, Nio’s venture capital arm NIO Capital, and JPMorgan. It aims to produce 1.5 million units annually at its new production plant in Changshu, China. It plans to expand the facility in 2022 to double production capacity to 3 million units annually. The company also has a manufacturing partner in Asia.
