Okay, here is the abstract and bulleted summary based on the provided article and discussion transcript. Note that since the input is an article and text discussion rather than a video transcript with timestamps, timestamps will only be included if explicitly mentioned within the text (which they are not in this case).
Abstract:
This document comprises an article detailing the history and recent mass production launch of the Bose "Magic Carpet" proactive suspension technology, alongside a Hacker News discussion thread reacting to the news. Originally a highly impressive but commercially impractical prototype demonstrated over two decades ago, the technology was acquired by ClearMotion and has now debuted in a production vehicle, the Nio ET9 in China, with further partnerships including Porsche planned. ClearMotion's implementation, while building on Bose's control software, utilizes different hardware (electro-hydraulic actuators vs. linear electric motors) and incorporates predictive capabilities based on crowdsourced road data. The discussion explores comparisons to existing active suspension systems from various manufacturers (Mercedes, Cadillac, BYD, Citroen, Porsche), debates the nuances and effectiveness of different active versus variable damping technologies, raises questions about the demos' real-world representativeness and the system's long-term reliability, and touches upon broader implications such as the future of traffic calming measures like speed bumps and potential data privacy concerns from road mapping. A ClearMotion founder also contributes technical details and addresses durability claims.
Reviving the Magic Carpet: Bose Suspension Technology in Production and Discussion
Legendary Bose Suspension: Over twenty years ago, Bose showcased a prototype proactive electromechanical suspension system (on a Lexus LS400) capable of jumping over potholes, cornering flat, and maintaining a level body over uneven surfaces, appearing almost magical.
Past Impracticality: Despite its impressive capabilities, the original Bose system was deemed impractical for mass production in 2004, leading Bose to eventually sell off the technology rights.
ClearMotion Acquires and Develops: The technology was acquired by ClearMotion, an American company, which has further developed it. ClearMotion's version reportedly uses electro-hydraulic actuators and predictive control software, adapting from Bose's original linear electric motor design.
Mass Production Launch: The ClearMotion version, branded ClearMotion1, has finally entered mass production in its first application on the electric Nio ET9 vehicle in China, starting in April 2025.
Significant Scale and Future Partnerships: ClearMotion has a deal with Nio to equip 3 million cars, a scale expected to help reduce costs. They are also partnering with Porsche and in talks with other European automakers, aiming for global adoption.
Advanced Features: ClearMotion1 includes predictive control, "Infinite preview" using crowdsourced road data (<3cm precision), software-enabled pre-crash posture mitigation, and tire grip technology. The Porsche deal includes a "RoadMotion" software for road surface "fingerprinting."
Durability Claim: The ClearMotion founder (zacka) states the system has passed 5 years of testing across millions of miles to meet automotive requirements.
Vibration Reduction Claim: The founder claims the system reduces transmitted vibration by about 80% compared to top market technologies, benefiting comfort and potentially reducing motion sickness for autonomous vehicle occupants.
Comparison to Other Tech: Discussion participants compare ClearMotion/Bose technology to various existing active/semi-active suspension systems like Cadillac's Magnetic Ride, Mercedes' Active Body Control/Magic Body Control, BYD's system, and historical Citroen hydropneumatics, debating the fundamental differences between moving wheels versus controlling damping.
Skepticism on Demos: Some participants express skepticism about the real-world performance compared to controlled demos, particularly concerning the use of pre-mapped roads for predictive control.
Reliability Concerns: The complexity of the system raises concerns among commenters about long-term reliability and potential repair costs compared to simpler suspension designs.
Implications for Speed Bumps: Several commenters discuss how highly effective suspension could render traffic calming measures like speed bumps ineffective, questioning their future and considering alternatives like chicanes or roundabouts.
Data Privacy: The use of crowdsourced road data for "fingerprinting" surfaces is noted as a potential data privacy issue.
Bose's Background: The connection to Bose's roots in acoustics and noise cancellation is highlighted, viewing the suspension as "ANC for wheels," along with the related Bose Ride truck seat technology.
Availability of Prototype: An article mentioning the finding of one of the original Lexus LS400 Bose prototypes being sold as a parts car is noted.