Active Suspension

Active suspension is a computer-controlled suspension system that automatically adjusts the ride height and stiffness of each corner of the car in real-time, based on sensor data about the car's speed, acceleration, and road surface. Unlike passive suspension, which uses springs and dampers that respond to forces after they occur, active suspension anticipates and responds to forces before they affect the car's attitude. The result is a car that maintains a perfectly flat attitude through corners, maximising aerodynamic efficiency and tyre contact. Active suspension was used by Williams in 1992 (FW14B) and 1993 (FW15C), contributing to their dominant performances. It was banned at the end of 1993 along with traction control and ABS.

Active suspension was developed by Lotus in the 1980s but was not competitive initially. Williams perfected the technology in 1992, with the FW14B being the most technically advanced car of its era. Nigel Mansell won 9 of 16 races. The technology was banned at the end of 1993 as part of a move to reduce the role of electronics in F1.