A.R.S.E.

Back in 2004 Bose revealed that it had been secretly working on an active suspension system since 1980. By using powerful electromagnetic struts, the Bose system could instantly extend or retract any one wheel, with all four corners working in concert to keep the car's body level. Bose demonstrated the system on a Lexus LS400 outside its headquarters in Framingham, Massachusetts, speeding the car over all manner of obstacles while the body remained completely serene—as a finale, the Lexus gracefully leaped over a piece of lumber in its path. It seemed like the dawn of a new era, and the company predicted that within a few years the system would be available in production cars. More than a decade later, where's our active suspension?

So far, only in big-rig truck seats, where the Bose Ride mounting system actively nulls shock and vibration before it reaches the driver. But cars are still the main prize, so we asked whether the system could be ready in five years if a car manufacturer committed today. A company spokesman replied, "Yes. Of course, we'd have to work with a car manufacturer on development and customization, but it's technically feasible. And when the right car customer is ready, we'll be ready." So there's your answer. Now who wants in on the suspension revolution?

norbs wrote:I was on board til the jump. But hey, who knows.