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Draft:ClearMotion

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ClearMotion, Inc.
IndustryAutomotive
Founded2009; 16 years ago (2009)
FoundersZack Anderson, Shakeel Avadhany
Headquarters,
USA
Key people
  • Christian Steinmann: CEO
Websiteclearmotion.com

ClearMotion, Inc. is an American automotive technology company specializing in software-defined chassis systems, notably active suspension technologies designed to enhance ride comfort and vehicle dynamics. Founded out of MIT in 2009 by Zack Anderson and Shakeel Avadhany, the company is headquartered in Billerica, Massachusetts, with additional facilities in the UK and China.[1]

History

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ClearMotion originated from research conducted at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, initially focusing on regenerative suspension systems. The company, originally known as Levant Power, rebranded to ClearMotion in 2017 to reflect its broader vision of transforming vehicle dynamics through software and mechatronics. ClearMotion has secured funding from investors including Franklin Templeton, J.P. Morgan Asset Management, Microsoft, Qualcomm, NIO Capital, Bridgestone, and New Enterprise Associates amassing over $350 million.[2] [3]

In 2023, ClearMotion commenced construction of its first production facility in Changshu, China, with plans to produce up to 1.5 million units annually of its ClearMotion1 (CM1) active suspension system.[4]

Products

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ClearMotion1 (CM1)

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The ClearMotion1 system is a high-bandwidth active suspension technology that replaces traditional shock absorbers with electrohydraulic actuators controlled by proprietary software. This setup allows for real-time adjustments to road conditions, significantly reducing vehicle body motion and enhancing ride comfort.[5] The core component, known as the Activalve, is designed for rapid response to road disturbances, improving safety and passenger experience.[6][7]

RoadMotion

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RoadMotion is ClearMotion's cloud-based platform that aggregates sensor data to create high-definition maps of road surfaces. These maps enable predictive adjustments to vehicle systems, enhancing features like adaptive cruise control and autonomous driving capabilities by providing real-time information about upcoming road conditions.[8]

Role in Autonomous Driving and Passenger Productivity

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ClearMotion's technologies enhance the autonomous driving experience by mitigating motion-induced discomfort, thereby enabling passengers to engage in productive activities during transit. [9] The CM1 system's ability to reduce in-cabin motion by up to 75% compared to traditional suspension systems addresses common issues like motion sickness, which is particularly beneficial in autonomous vehicles where occupants are not focused on driving.[10]

The integration of comfort and functionality positions ClearMotion's systems as essential components in the development of autonomous vehicles designed for passenger productivity.[11]

Partnerships

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In December 2023, ClearMotion announced a partnership with electric vehicle manufacturer NIO to integrate the CM1 system into NIO's upcoming models, with a production order of three million units.[12]

In April 2024, ClearMotion entered into a collaboration with Porsche AG to develop advanced chassis systems, including the integration of CM1 and RoadMotion technologies into Porsche vehicles.[13][14] ClearMotion is reportedly working with several additional European automakers.[15]

Additionally, ClearMotion has partnered with BWI Group, a global supplier of brake and suspension systems, to manufacture components for the CM1 system.[16]

References

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  1. ^ Green, Hannah (December 23, 2023). "ClearMotion secures $1B production order from Chinese EV maker". Boston Business Journal.
  2. ^ "ClearMotion: The road we're on". ClearMotion Blog. December 22, 2023.
  3. ^ "ClearMotion Smooths Path To Commercialization With $115M For AI-Driven Suspension Tech". Crunchbase News. 9 January 2019. Retrieved May 7, 2025.
  4. ^ "ClearMotion opens factory in China, production of suspension systems to begin in 2024". CnEVPost. March 2024. Retrieved May 7, 2025.
  5. ^ Stewart, Jack (April 9, 2018). "Fancy New Suspension Could Make Car Rides a Lot Smoother". WIRED.
  6. ^ "CM1 - ClearMotion". ClearMotion. Retrieved May 7, 2025.
  7. ^ Lampinen, Megan (July 3, 2023). "ClearMotion puts fresh spin on new mobility suspension tech". Automotive World.
  8. ^ "RoadMotion". ClearMotion. Retrieved May 7, 2025.
  9. ^ "Motion Sick? This Tech Company Thinks It Might Have a Solution". The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved May 7, 2025.
  10. ^ Simonite, Tom (April 26, 2018). "This startup hopes to keep barf bags out of self-driving cars". MIT Technology Review.
  11. ^ "ClearMotion looks into the future of autonomous vehicles". EV Design & Manufacturing. Retrieved May 7, 2025.
  12. ^ "ClearMotion partners with NIO to make active suspension technology a reality for consumers". ClearMotion Blog. Retrieved May 7, 2025.
  13. ^ "Porsche and US-based ClearMotion sign cooperation agreement". Porsche Newsroom. 4 September 2024. Retrieved May 7, 2025.
  14. ^ "Porsche partners with ClearMotion for its smooth suspension tech". Reuters. Retrieved May 7, 2025.
  15. ^ Hoyal, Lois (April 17, 2025). "Supplier to Porsche, Nio draws interest in Europe, China for active chassis tech". Automotive News.
  16. ^ "BWI Group partners with ClearMotion for High-Volume Active Suspension Business". BWI Group. Retrieved May 7, 2025.