The Difference Between Semi-Active Suspension and Fully Active Suspension?
2 Answers
The main differences between semi-active suspension and fully active suspension are as follows: 1. Semi-Active Suspension Semi-active suspension is passive control, meaning it cannot effectively control the stiffness and damping of the suspension during conditions such as vehicle steering, acceleration, and braking. However, semi-active suspension can automatically adjust the damping parameters of the suspension based on the vehicle's vibrations and operational conditions. To minimize the power required by the actuators, it typically adjusts the damper's damping, allowing the damping coefficient to change from minimum to maximum within milliseconds, thereby keeping the vehicle's vibration frequency within an ideal range. 2. Fully Active Suspension Fully active suspension, often simply called active suspension, is active control, including energy-providing equipment and additional devices that can control force. Active suspension can automatically adjust the suspension's stiffness, damping, and vehicle height based on changes in vehicle load, road conditions (vibrations), driving speed, and operational conditions (such as starting, braking, and steering). It can simultaneously meet various requirements for ride comfort and handling stability.
As a car enthusiast, I'm often asked about the difference between semi-active and fully active suspensions. Simply put, semi-active suspensions mainly adjust the damping force of the shock absorbers—they can stiffen or soften to handle road bumps but don’t actively change the suspension height. For example, when going over potholes, they rely on sensors to adjust gradually, sometimes with slower response times. Fully active suspensions are far more advanced—they not only adjust damping but also raise or lower the vehicle height in real-time, using hydraulic or electronic systems to instantly adapt to road conditions, delivering a smooth, boat-like ride. However, the differences don’t end there. Semi-active systems are more energy-efficient and fuel-saving due to their simpler components, making them easier to maintain for daily use. Fully active systems require more complex setups, consuming more energy and costing more. Overall, if you’re after ultimate comfort, go for fully active; otherwise, semi-active is already a great choice.
