Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp. (FCCC) unveiled its new V-Ride Rear Suspension System at the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) trade show—the first-ever single-axle rear suspension rated at 24,000 lbs.
V-Ride offers luxury motorhome manufacturers more options for floor plan designs and luxury amenities, and it offers motorhome owners more towing capacity and more flexibility. The V-Ride Rear Suspension System will be available as an option on the XC chassis from FCCC, beginning in model year 2015.
“The V-Ride is designed for today’s luxury motorhome owner who demands the ability to carry more gear and equip their coaches with more luxury amenities,” said J.P. Davis, RV product manager for FCCC. “And it’s more than just increased towing capacity that makes V-Ride unique and innovative – its proven design and engineering provide greater durability and a more stable, comfortable ride. It’s truly luxury without limits.”
Indeed, the design and engineering of the V-Ride – already proven in heavy-duty applications – bring unique features to market that combine to provide an improved overall driving experience. The suspension’s “v-rod”-shaped upper control arms – from which it derives its name – help to dissipate suspension forces through the crossmember and frame rails, reducing stress throughout the suspension.
In addition, the V-Ride’s transverse beam is directly integrated with the trailing arm to form a single-piece U-shaped assembly. This unified design, combined with the v-rod control arms, significantly reduces sway and provides a more stable motorcoach ride – especially in those instances when a motorcoach’s tendency is to lean or drift outward, as when traveling around a curve. Combined with its standard volumetric airbags, the V-Ride provides a smooth, stable, comfortable ride.