Gone are the days of conventional suspension systems with fixed settings. The new Ford Mondeo will have a new suspension system called Interactive Vehicle Dynamic Control (IVDC). This system works to ensure a more comfortable and safe ride.
The new active suspension system is capable of adjusting the car’s dampers more than 10 times a second in a bid to provide the best handling characteristics and a smoother ride. The firmer sports setting is an excellent choice for twisty roads while the comfort setting will come into play for a long distance motorway journey.
IVDC adjusts itself according to the road conditions and the acceleration and speed of the car. To this end, it utilizes seven sensors; one sensor for each wheel and the remaining three for keeping a tab on acceleration, pitch and roll. Information from the sensors goes to a control unit that makes appropriate changes in the dampers.
Norbert Kessing, vehicle dynamics manager at Ford, who spearheaded efforts for the development of the IVDC said:
New Mondeo’s ability to monitor its handling interactively with the driver improves safety and comfort. An active suspension system makes particular sense in larger cars like the new Mondeo. It enhances dynamic stability, particularly under critical driving conditions, and works with the car’s other safety systems to reduce braking distances by up to 10 per cent on rough roads.
This system effectively reduces the need for an ESP in routine driving, however, for tough conditions, it works together with the ESP and ABS to increase safety. IVDC option is available at a cost of £650.
[Courtesy: Ford]
