In 1980, Bose founder and CEO Dr. Amar Bose conducted a mathematical study to determine the optimum possible performance of an automotive suspension, ignoring the limitations of any existing suspension hardware. This 5-year study indicated that it was possible to achieve performance that was a large step above anything available. After evaluating conventional and variable spring/damper systems, as well as hydraulic approaches, it was determined that none had the combination of speed, strength and efficiency necessary to provide the desired results. The study identified electromagnetics as the one approach that could deliver optimal suspension characteristics.
The Bose suspension required significant advancements in four key disciplines: linear electromagnetic motors, power amplifiers, control algorithms and computation speed. Bose took on the challenge of the first three disciplines and bet on developments that industry would make on the fourth item.
Prototypes of the Bose suspension system have been installed in standard production vehicles. These research vehicles have been tested on a wide variety of roads, on tracks and on durability courses.
Body roll while cornering
Two vehicles of the same make and model are shown performing an aggressive cornering maneuver.
The vehicle on the left has the original factory-installed suspension and the vehicle on the right has the Bose suspension system.
Body motion bump course
The vehicle on the left has the original factory-installed suspension and the vehicle on the right has the Bose suspension system.

