Active Suspension in an R/C Car? One Hobbyist's Year-Long Journey from Concept to Reality

The level of scale realism in the R/C hobby has come a long way, especially in the past few years. Aside from just appearance details, we've seen handling characteristics and other features built into models by both R/C manufacturers and hobbyists.

One stunning example of a radio-controlled passion project is this; a 1/10-scale R/C car with functioning active suspension (found at superscale2020.blogspot.com). Taking nearly a year from concept to completion, this custom car has had more than a few tweaks applied to it.

Combining four independent servos, all controlled by an Arduino and accelerometer, this car beautifully recreates the effect of the body lurching and rolling upon acceleration and sudden stops. Starting with an HSP Flying Fish 1/10-scale drift chassis, this machine has been re-imagined and re-developed with 3D printed parts and an amazing level of engineering.

Elements of the chassis, the body, tires, and wheels are all 3D printed elements, allowing the fabricator to get each piece of this puzzle to fit perfectly. The body and body details alone are amazing, giving me an idea for a “ future someday” build of my own. But I digress...

If you want to see this model in action, SuperScale2020 has posted two videos on his blog showing the completed project in all its glory.

Aside from being a stunning work of rolling art, this build should help jumpstart some creative ideas of your own as you head toward your R/C workbench. Learn more about this Active Suspension R/C Car project at superscale2020.blogspot.com.

Image credit: superscale2020.blogspot.com