|
|
Article: Flexible suspension;Tenneco unveils elastomer-based system.(Brief Article)
- Article from:
- Rubber & Plastics News
- Article date:
- March 6, 2000
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2000 Crain Communications, Inc. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
|
LAKE FOREST, Ill.--Tenneco Automotive Inc., working closely with DaimlerChrysler A.G. and General Motors Corp., has developed weight- and space-saving elastomer-based suspension systems for the car makers' highly fuel efficient prototypes.
The DaimlerChrysler development, mounted on the recently unveiled Dodge ESX3 concept car, replaces traditional springs and associated mounts and brackets with a simple axle tube with elastomeric spring elements. GM's hybrid-power Precept uses an air-spring-based system.
The patented Elastomeric Torsional Axle on the ESX3 reduces the complexity of rear axle design by up to 40 percent to achieve a 25-35 percent weight ...