Some Linguistics and Prehistory

Now, let’s dive into the thrilling world and history of hypcars, all characterised by their remarkable suspension systems. We’ve chosen the term “hypcar” to specifically refer to vehicles equipped with hydropneumatic suspension, which cleverly combines fluid and pressurised gas. The prefix “hydro” comes from the ancient Greek word for water, “hydor,” while “pneumatic” relates to gases. Fun fact: in Greek, “pneuma” also translates to “spirit,” adding an enchanting layer of vibrancy to this suspension type. What’s more, the early inventions of pneumatic and hydraulic engineering can be traced back to Hero of Alexandria in the 2nd century AD! Now, let’s zoom in from those Greek beginnings to the significant French contributions that shaped fluid and gas suspensions.

Blaise Pascal, the 17th-century French mathematician, physicist, and philosopher, was the first to unlock the physical laws governing the movement of fluids and gases. Pascal’s revelation that fluids can’t be compressed while gases can be compressed significantly laid the groundwork for future innovations. Although he likely never imagined the vast applications of his findings, the significance of suspension was already gaining traction in his time. Carriages began utilising “thoroughbraces” leather straps, delivering a sumptuous ride for the elite. Over the years, suspension evolved into a crucial element linking vehicles to the road, tackling bumps and uneven surfaces. Its purpose expanded beyond mere comfort, ensuring vehicle stability and safety by managing movement.

However, it wasn’t until the 20th century that Pascal’s principles truly shone in the automotive realm. In the 1920s, French innovator George Messier equipped 150 cars with his early pneumatic suspension system (photo on the right). Then, in 1929, the Czech company Tatra introduced air suspension paired with leaf springs for the rear axle of their T 24. By 1946, William Bushnell Stout, credited with inventing independent suspension using coils in the 1930s, introduced air suspension in his Stout Scarab Experimental vehicle; unfortunately, it never reached the mass market.

The following year, Jean-Albert Grégoire, a pioneer of front-wheel drive technology, patented the first variable-flexibility suspension system using coils and introduced the “Aerostable” bump stops (photo on the left). Fast forward to 1953, and Christian Bourcier de Carbon made his mark by patenting the first high-pressure gas monotube. Just two years later, Hans Bilstein entered the scene, investing in the production of monotube gas dampers that made their striking debut in a Mercedes-Benz series vehicle in 1957.

While these early innovations were exciting, it was the brilliant French inventor Paul Magès who brought the term “hydropneumatic” into the limelight. Magès cleverly applied Pascal’s principles to a Citroën car, using interactive gas and oil struts for a revolutionary connection to the ground. This pioneering system first featured in the rear-wheel suspension of the Citroën Traction 15-Six H in 1954. Although some opted for the term “oleopneumatic,” reflecting the use of mineral or synthetic oil, “hydropneumatic” has secured its position as the preferred choice over the years.