Chassis

Video Interview: Google goes gaga over automotive technologies AEI spoke with Google's Anthony Levandowski at the SAE 2012 World Congress about his company's interest in autonomous vehicles. Read full story

Wheelchair-accessible taxi exhibited in New York The MV-1 from Vehicle Production Group is a purpose-built body-on-frame vehicle for wheelchair use with an access ramp and greater interior room than converted taxis. Read full story

Flying car makes debut in New York With folding wings to reduce width to garageable status, the Terrafugia Transition Roadable Aircraft fits into the “light sport plane” category and delivers 35 mpg fuel economy on the road. The company claims 100 orders with $10,000 deposits for the $279,000 vehicle. Read full story

BWI engineers develop improved rebound stop performance The chassis and braking system specialist company works to improve ride/handling compromise via hydraulic rebound stop technology, allowing passive suspension to compete with adaptive systems. Read full story

New Acura RDX crossover bucks trend with V6 power A new model in high-volume entry-luxury area, the RDX's ride is improved and its EPA fuel economy is 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway for the front-drive model thanks to a cylinder deactivation system and a six-speed automatic that replaces the five-speed. It is joined by the ILX line as Acura begins its makeover. Read full story

Brembo sees high-performance brakes moving into more medium-price cars The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is one example, using a cast-iron rotor. An improved carbon-ceramic manufacturing process is sought to increase production and reduce cost. Fixed caliper design provides more uniform lining wear, reduced hysteresis, and better ABS response. Read full story

Unconventional steel wheel designs The drawings done by collegiate students for a steel wheel design competition had industry professionals thinking about future production possibilities. Read full story

Continental focuses on faster braking with electrohydraulic system The supplier introduces a new, compact braking system that is faster, quieter, and more efficient. It is designed for use in both conventional and hybrid powertrains. Read full story

TMD Friction air disc brake material meets requirements for aftermarket linings TMD Friction’s premium air disc brake pad friction material, Textar T3070, has met the FMVSS 121 dynamometer requirements of TMC’s Recommended Practice #628 – “Aftermarket Brake Lining Qualification.” Compatibility issues arising from different brake designs on front and rear axles were a major reason TMD developed and certified a disc brake pad formulated to replicate the performance of drum lining material. Read full story