GM Developing Ride Height-Based Active Aero Tech

General Motors Co. has filed a patent application for a system that tweaks a vehicle’s aerodynamic settings based on suspension ride height over changing road surfaces and when negotiating turns.

The patent indicates a laser or ultrasonic sensors could be used to measure a vehicle’s ride height and body roll against base line levels. A controller would trigger adjustments to optimize airflow and overall performance.

GM says the active aero elements could consist of an adjustable spoiler, air dam, diffuser and/or shutter and splitter positioned at the front or rear of the vehicle. Aerodynamic changes also could be made based on steering inputs, according to the carmaker.

In the patent application, GM diagrams the system on a Chevrolet Corvette. This has led some media reports to suggest that GM is planning a high-performance track version of the iconic sports car. Others point out the similarity of GM’s system to the one Lamborghini is developing for its Huracan supercar.

GM filed its application last May with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The application was published earlier this month.