MAGNERIDE DAMPING

GM FIRST introduced ‘Magneride’ variable damping in January 2002 in its upmarket Cadillac brand and has since used it widely via various updates. The system was developed by Uk-based automotive parts supplier Delphi Corporation, originally a spin-off from GM, but by that time a fully independent company in its own right.

Magneride uses dampers containing electromagnetic coils and special damping fluid that contains iron particles. By altering the electric current to the electro-magnetic coil, a magnetic field (of varying intensity) can be created, which causes the iron particles to cluster and restrict the flow of the damping fluid through the damper’s oil passages, which in turn increases the damping force.

As well as being able to vary the damping force almost instantaneously, according to the roughness of the road being traversed, the system can also provide a flatter ride by automatically firming up the suspension to counter body roll.