TEG

CEOswife wrote:
## The model and images of WhiteStar that I have seen are of a very sleek and elegant automobile.

Can you tell us *anything* more about it?

Does it resemble the Roadster in any way? ("Tesla brand identity")

Does it have a resemblance to other cars you know ("e.g.: BMWish, Jaguaresque, or Porschelike")?

Does it look fairly conventional, or would you know right away that it is something very different.
(For instance the EV1 was very different, but the Rav4EV looked like any other car).

CEOswife

Sorry. I treasure my marriage!

dsacks6

Lol ;D

Michael

I wonder if a vechicle that rides very comfortably can really also be a very capable handling car? Is it possible to get both without compromising both?

The only way that I've read about, where both are possible without compromise, is if an Active Suspension is involved. I wanted to suggest this since I've been aware that Bose has developed a very light weight suspension system that also requires minimal power. Although I would imagine that this would not be an inexpensive option, I strongly believe that if it were offered as an option, you might have a significant number of people willing to opt for the expense. Just imagine the possibilities of being able to dial in whatever type of ride support you want.

TEG

Yes!, but it is harder to get it right.
Using overly stiff springs is the easy way to crisp handling but you sacrifice ride comfort.
With proper tuning you can make a great handling car even with softer springs that can absorb the bumps better.

Also, short wheelbase gives a car a small turning circle and quick response but then you have unpleasant high speed oscillations (car tilts back and forth over bumps).
Longer wheelbase with less overhangs makes for a more comfortable freeway ride. They can get small turning circles back with tricks like rear wheel steering.

Double A-arms instead of struts is a good start. Low center of mass is also key. Careful tuning of springs rates and shock absorber characteristics can make a world of difference.
Tesla is working with Lotus and Lotus are masters of suspension tuning, so they no doubt are doing the best they can.