Nivomat

Function

The challenge

Driving with constantly heavy or changing loads, as well as towing a trailer, place high demands on both the vehicle and the driver. Extra weight on the rear axle shifts the center of gravity, which has a major impact on the ride characteristics. In critical situations, the vehicle can be very difficult to control. Under these conditions a "floaty" ride characteristic can not be considered as comfort anymore. Other effects are increasing expenses: The tires wear unevenly and faster. Bad aerodynamics causes a higher fuel consumption. Greater strain is also placed on the axle as a whole.

The solution: Nivomat from ZF

The Nivomat is a fully automatic leveling system. In place of conventional shock absorbers, this unique system is installed on the rear axle. While providing additional roll stability and without requiring any additional electronics, the Nivomat adjusts the vehicle to the optimum ride height for every load condition, thus ensuring a safe and comfortable ride.

The Nivomat is available as a standard or optional feature in numerous vehicle models. Retrofitting is also possible in many cases.

 

Design

1. High pressure gas chamber
2. Separator piston between oil reservoir and gas pressure chamber
3. Oil suction line
4. Pump rod
5. Bypass for controlling height level (sensor)
6. Damping piston
7. Control opening for oil backflow
8. Oil reservoir
9. Pump inlet valve
   
   
10. Control sleeve, which makes up pump together with the pump rod and inlet/outlet valves
11. Pump chamber
12. Pump outlet valve

Benefit

Greater safety

• Safe handling due to constant vehicle ride height for every load condition
• Constant ground clearance makes driving on bumpy surfaces safer

Better comfort

• The ride characteristics does not become "floaty" under high axle loads
• Less driver fatigue

More economical

• Less wear on tires and axle
• Lower fuel consumption
• No additional energy source required
• No additional CO2 emissions
• Higher vehicle resell value

Typical applications for the Nivomat

 

1. Transporting passengers
2. Transporting merchandize
3. Special vehicle (police, ambulance, fire department, roadside assistance, service technicians ...)
4. Family trips (with loaded roof racks)
5. Stabilizing when towing utility trailers:
6. Transporting merchandize
7. Travel trailers
8. Horse trailers
9. Boat trailers

Technical Data

You will find detailed technical information and data sheets in English or German language on zf.com/Nivomat .