Clearmotion Case Study: Full Active Suspension System
Developing breakthrough vehicle technology is one thing, yet proving it’s safe, reliable, and ready for real-world use is another matter entirely.
ClearMotion were pioneering a fully active suspension system designed to redefine ride dynamics and vehicle performance, but with innovation at this level comes huge complexity: multiple layers of hardware and software interaction, stringent safety expectations, and the need for structured development processes that could stand up to scrutiny from customers, suppliers, and regulators. Early on in the project, ClearMotion tasked 3SK to build the entire safety engineering foundations and lifecycle required to transform an advanced concept into a demonstrably safe, production-ready product.
Client Industry: Full Active Suspension System (automotive)
Company Size: Start-up
Client Location: UK
Client’s Challenges
ClearMotion recognised early on that its technology was inherently safety-critical, requiring robust engineering and safety processes to gain customer trust. However, the organisation had little to no established in-house processes to support compliant safety development across its system, hardware, and software domains.
Safety Risks
The system architecture consisted of multiple interconnected layers, creating a significant need for traceability, structured testing, and formal risk assessment. Managing large volumes of requirements added complexity and effort, making traceability a critical focus area.
Compliance or Regulatory Concerns
Supplier activities created potential compliance risks and unnecessary expenditure without structured oversight, highlighting the need for disciplined safety assessments and process structure.
The Solution
Approach
3SK embedded experienced engineering specialists from day one, ensuring every activity delivered measurable value. The team established structured processes straight away, plus tools needed to support safe and efficient system development.
Consulting
3SK supported the entire product lifecycle, including safety case development, identifying process gaps, risk assessments, compliance and defining the actions required to close them.
Training
Targeted support was provided at the software level, including enabling in-house teams to carry out Software FMEA activities with hands-on guidance from 3SK.
Systems / Methods / Tools
3SK applied structured safety engineering aligned with ISO 26262 principles, with strong emphasis on traceability, requirements management, and risk reduction mechanisms.
Collaboration
3SK worked closely with ClearMotion’s in-house team and suppliers, conducting audits and feeding insights back to ensure the entire ecosystem was managed optimally.
Results
Risk Reduction
A comprehensive safety case demonstrated that the product achieved the required risk reduction measures, meeting ISO 26262 expectations.
Efficiency Gains
Adopting a lean yet rigorous development lifecycle improved overall engineering efficiency while maintaining safety integrity.
Compliance Reached
Development aligned to ASIL C safety requirements.
Financial Impact
By identifying the correct safety approach before full development and manufacturing took place, ClearMotion avoided costly redesign, rework, and potential field failures, saving both time and financial burden.
Summary
3SK partnered with ClearMotion across the full lifecycle of safety development, from early concept through to implementation and validation. By de-risking complex technical scenarios and embedding structured engineering discipline, 3SK enabled ClearMotion to launch a safe, reliable product with confidence.
Is your organisation developing safety-critical technology? Are you seeking clarity, structure, and confidence in your path to launch? 3SK can help.
Why Work With 3SK?
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Deep expertise in complex, software-intensive engineering
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Proven track record delivering safety-critical programmes
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Bespoke solutions tailored to each client’s development environment
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Ongoing support and knowledge transfer to sustain compliance long term
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