The Fiat 500 Abarth simulator was a fun project created by our team to study the effects of simulating the front suspension McPherson strut design and the rear torsion beam suspension in a confined vehicle platform. In previous projects we always worked with performance suspension designs such as double A-arm or multi-link designs. Torsion beam and McPherson strut suspension systems are cost effective for mass production but present control issues when combined with our electric actuators. Special calculations and modifications were made to allow real world suspension travel in the Abarth. Furthermore, the tight space constraints of the engine compartment and rear hatch storage made it difficult to hide the electric actuators and be clear of any interference. In the end the lightweight, low speed nature of this experience was a huge draw at the 2014 SEMA show. However, SEMA has asked us not to come back again next year. To bigger and better things then.
See a video here: YouTube