Ford Takes Adjustable Suspension Systems to the Next Level

Adaptive dampers have transformed the suspension systems in cars. Even while the car is on the go, it is now possible to change its dynamics. When it comes to supercars and sports cars, owners who pay top dollar for their vehicles want a ride that is powerful but comfortable at the same time. Ford has now come up with new technology that will take adjustable suspension systems to the next level.

For the Ford GT, the American car manufacturer used its expertise gained through Formula One racing to come up with a suspension system that uses both adaptive dampers and adaptive spring rates. Pushrod-actuated torsion bars have been incorporated as part of the design to allow space for the large air channels that are cut into the body. The ride becomes a lot more comfortable with the installation of two springs in every corner, which are arranged in a series. The use of multiple springs cuts the spring rate of the vehicle in half, and less force is needed to compress the spring when both springs are activated. In combination with the use of three mode adaptive dampers that are at their lowest setting, riding in a Ford GT becomes really comfortable in Normal or Wet mode.

In the case of the Sport mode, the springs are used in the same manner. However, the dampers are firmed up to allow for a more dynamic ride. When it comes to the full on Track or V-max mode, one of the springs is cut out of the series. This stiffens the ride and increases the spring rate. The adaptive damper is also placed in its most aggressive setting to enhance the performance aspect and the suspension drops by 2.0 inches. The main difference between Track and V-Max is that in Track, the aerodynamic hardware is set to an aggressive downforce-generating mode. In V-Max mode, the car is lowered to be as slippery as possibly. The settings can be changed at a moment’s notice through the hydraulic power steering system.

With the changes to the suspension system, the new Ford GT will definitely create a splash both on the road and on the track.