What is KDSS?
4 Answers
KDSS stands for Kinetic-Dynamic-Suspension-System, which translates to Dynamic Suspension System in Chinese. Its function is to adjust the stabilizer bars and balance bars through hydraulics, enhancing the vehicle's performance both on-road and off-road. The KDSS primarily consists of an electronically controlled dynamic adjustment suspension system. The front and rear stabilizer bars of the KDSS each have independent hydraulic cylinders that control vertical movement and are connected by a hydraulic system. Each stabilizer bar's hydraulic cylinder is divided into upper and lower chambers. The front upper and lower hydraulics are connected to the rear upper and lower hydraulics via their respective hydraulic lines. Each hydraulic line contains an accumulator. The KDSS controls a set of valves connected to the accumulators in the hydraulic lines to maintain each stabilizer bar in its optimal state. KDSS Mode Selection: Normal Mode: When the vehicle is in a turning state, the outer suspensions of both the front and rear wheels are compressed, while the inner suspensions are extended. This causes the stabilizer bars to twist, resisting body roll. The two connected hydraulic pumps have no fluid flow between them, functioning like a conventional suspension but with improved anti-roll capability. Off-Road Mode: When any one of the four wheels encounters an obstacle and is lifted, the suspension of the lifted wheel is compressed, and the stabilizer bar rises along with the hydraulic pump. Fluid flows between the two hydraulic pumps, absorbing the twist of the stabilizer bar. Since the stabilizer bar does not twist, the suspension travel is greater than that of a conventional suspension and can be adjusted according to different road conditions. It can automatically disengage the stabilizer bar's function based on the terrain. How KDSS Works: It uses two hydraulic cylinders to control a fixed point (left-side fixed point) on the front and rear suspension stabilizer bars. Under normal driving conditions, this fixed point is locked, and the stabilizer bars function normally, performing anti-roll duties during turns. In off-road conditions, as the suspension is continuously compressed and extended, this fixed point is released, moving with the hydraulic cylinders. The rotational constraint of the stabilizer bar along the X-axis (vehicle length direction) is also released, allowing rotation around the right-side fixed point. This means the stabilizer bar no longer has any effect, ensuring better wheel contact and allowing significant wheel articulation. This improves tire contact performance and overall off-road capability.
KDSS is an innovative design in automotive suspension systems, primarily applied in Toyota's premium SUVs such as the Land Cruiser. During my research in automotive engineering, I noticed it dynamically adjusts the anti-roll bar through hydraulic control: on highways during turns, it enhances rigidity to reduce body roll; off-road, it releases restrictions to increase tire grip. This system ingeniously balances stability and comfort, significantly improving driving safety, especially noticeable during long-distance travel, avoiding passenger discomfort. I recommend interested enthusiasts to pay more attention to relevant vehicle reviews to gain a deeper understanding of how to optimize daily handling.
I've driven vehicles equipped with KDSS, like the Lexus GX, and the driving experience was phenomenal. On highways during high-speed cornering, the car feels firmly planted to the ground without any floatiness or sway; off-road on bumpy terrain, it absorbs vibrations better, making the ride much more comfortable. This system automatically adapts to road conditions, ensuring a smoother journey overall. I highly recommend it to drivers looking to balance daily commuting with adventure. It's definitely worth trying, but make sure to test drive to feel the difference when choosing your vehicle.
KDSS is a simple concept: the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, commonly used in off-road vehicles. I think it helps the vehicle stay stable when cornering on flat roads and comfortable on bumpy terrain. The principle is similar to automatically loosening or tightening the connecting components to prevent rollovers or swaying, enhancing safety. Even beginners can easily understand the basic benefits of this design.
