FYI: Trucks and SUVs continue to embrace leaf spring technology even as we advance into 2025, offering unique benefits over their modern counterparts, coil springs.
Why Do Leaf Springs Persist in 2025 Truck Design?
While automotive technology surges forward, some trucks and SUVs cling to a stalwart relic of the past: the leaf spring suspension. Why this enduring choice? The answer lies in the remarkable strength and affordability leaf springs provide, enabling vehicles to manage heavy loads effortlessly.
Understanding Leaf Springs
A leaf spring is essentially a series of steel strips stacked and flexed together. This setup creates a curved "smile-like" formation attached to the vehicle’s axle. When a bump is encountered, the leaf spring absorbs the shock, spreading the force across its length rather than a single point. This distribution of force helps trucks conquer rugged terrains with ease. Moreover, their cost-effectiveness makes them a favorite for long-haul vehicular maintenance, ideal when traversing across vast regions frequently.
Coil Springs and Their Comparative Benefits
Contrasting with leaf springs, coil springs are widely used in modern cars due to their comfort advantage. Coil springs consist of steel coils wrapped around the struts, minimizing friction. This setup offers passengers a smoother ride and allows customization for varying performance needs. However, due to their vertical design, coil springs face limitations when handling the powerful loads often demanded by trucks and heavier SUVs.
The Modern Hybrid Approach
These days, many trucks and SUVs incorporate a hybrid suspension system. Coil springs are frequently used on front axles to ensure passenger comfort, while the rear axles retain leaf springs for handling cargo. This combination strikes a balance between comfort and capability, showcasing a savvy approach to leveraging the best of both worlds.
In summary, although leaf springs might resemble an ancient technology, their robust design, reliability, and affordability ensure they remain a pivotal component of modern truck and SUV suspensions. As long as these vehicles require dependable strength for hefty loads, leaf springs will continue to have a place in the industry.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
