The Dream Car Features We Want But May Never See

As an avid car enthusiast, there are always certain features and concepts that I wish car manufacturers would bring into production. In this article, we will explore some of the dream car features and concepts that, despite their promise and potential, may never see the light of day due to various reasons.

Dodge Charger R/T Concept from 1999

I would love to see Dodge manufacture a modern version of the Dodge Charger R/T Concept from 1999. The original concept featured a CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) powered engine, but a change to a conventional gasoline engine would breathe new life into the aging Charger model. While the concept car had four doors that were seamlessly integrated into the body, a little cosmetic update to the front fascia could give us a sleek and modern version of the Charger. Unfortunately, the LH platform used for the concept car is no longer in production, making such a model unlikely to come to fruition.

1998 Volvo V70 with Manual Transmission

Another dream of mine is to own a brand new 1998 Volvo V70 with a manual transmission and similar options to my old one, but without the quarter of a million miles and salt corrosion from years of use. I still remember the car fondly and always wished I could drive a similar one today. It would capture the essence of a classic Volvo while offering modern reliability and performance.

Lotus Active Ride Suspension System

A highly advanced suspension technology that received widespread attention in the 1980s is the Lotus Active Ride Suspension System. This innovative system used hydraulic cylinders to replace traditional coil springs, allowing for precise control of ride height and suspension dynamics. The Active Ride system was so successful that it briefly found its way into Formula 1 racing before being banned. Its real-world applications, however, were limited, although some prototypical installations were made in various production cars.

Compared to standard suspension systems, the Lotus Active Ride offered several advantages. For instance, a back-to-back test between two Volvos (one with the Active Ride and the other with conventional coil springs) demonstrated that the Active Ride car was smoother, faster in corners, and easier to control at the limit of grip. The system could adapt to different driving conditions and road surfaces, providing an unparalleled level of comfort and control. However, the downsides included noise, the need for additional horsepower, and a significant increase in vehicle weight.

Considering the advantages and technical possibilities, the Lotus Active Ride seems to be a feature that could revolutionize suspension systems if available in modern cars. It would eliminate the need for traditional spring and shock adjustments, allowing for instant changes in handling characteristics and ride height. The technology has certainly not been forgotten, and with advancements in electronics and materials, modern versions of this system could potentially offer similar benefits without the drawbacks of the past.

In conclusion, while these features and concepts may seem unattainable, they represent the cutting-edge of automotive innovation. Whether it's a sleek and powerful version of the Charger R/T Concept, a classic Volvo with modern performance, or the advanced Lotus Active Ride suspension system, these dreams continue to inspire and drive the evolution of the car industry.