Goldschmitt Launches ‘RideHeightControl’ in Europe – RVBusiness – Breaking RV Industry News
For many years, auxiliary air suspension systems have proven to be an effective solution for counteracting the heavy loads of motorhomes and commercial vehicles. By installing air-filled spring elements, the standard steel suspension is supported, and the rear of the vehicle is reliably raised. The control is manual, with the air pressure monitored via pressure gauges.
This practice, which has been in operation for decades, requires manual adjustments to ensure optimal air pressure for various load conditions. However, the pressure in the bellows only provides limited insight into the actual vehicle height. Even digital controls with analogue pressure displays cannot change this fact.
But what would actually provide the driver with more ease? The clear answer is an automatic solution that does not rely on the air pressure in the bellows, but directly takes the actual vehicle height into account. This is where Goldschmitt’s innovative RHC control system comes into play: Using precise height sensors, the actual vehicle height is monitored and automatically adjusted without the need for manual intervention.
“Pressure measurement thus becomes redundant – a huge relief in everyday use,” explained Markus Mairon, managing director of Goldschmitt techmobil GmbH, stated in a release from the Germany-based manufacturer of chassis and suspension technology, leveling systems and payload increases for motorhomes and transporter vans as well as ambulance, industrial and special vehicles.
Goldschmitt RHC Control System: Innovation and Comfort Combined
The new control system, called RHC (RideHeightControl), takes the use and operation of auxiliary air springs to the next level. Gone are the days of manual height adjustment and pressure monitoring via bulky gauges and pressure sensors. The RHC control system automatically maintains the optimal ride height under all loading conditions. Weight changes at the rear axle are detected by level sensors and passed to the control unit. This unit processes all relevant data, analyses it, and, if necessary, issues commands to adjust the pressure in the air springs. Load imbalances are automatically compensated, eliminating the risk of user error. Manual control is still possible, however. While stationary, the vehicle’s rear can be raised or lowered, for example, to make it easier to cross ramps or other obstacles. An LED light indicates when the vehicle is not at the preset ride height. The preset level can easily be recalled with the press of a button.
Sleek Control Panel and Intuitive Smartphone App
Aesthetics are not neglected with the RHC system either. Unlike conventional air suspension controls, the compact and extremely slim RHC control panel (57 x 32 x 2.5 mm) takes up little space in the vehicle’s interior and can be installed on any available flat surface. Installation is also simplified as there is no need for air hoses to be routed into the cab. Even more control options are available with the free smartphone app (iOS/Android). The app allows the user to control the functions of the control panel (level adjustment, raising and lowering) via their phone. Furthermore, users can independently adjust the left and right sides of the vehicle, and store an additional position. The app also provides access to extra information, including live data and an event log. Additionally, every installation service benefits from the plug-and-play solution and the simple commissioning interface.
Available from January 2025 at the introductory price of €1,399
The new auxiliary air suspension systems will be available from January 2025 for the Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer, Citroën Jumper (from 2006), and Opel Mo- vano (from 2021). The introductory price (valid until 31st March 2025) is €1,399 (about $1,503 U.S.) plus installation and TÜV inspection. These systems will be exclusively available at the Goldschmitt Technik-Centres in Walldürn, Polch, and Leutkirch, as well as from all Goldschmitt Premium Partners. The complete price, including installation at the Goldschmitt Technik-Centres, is €1,999 ($2,158 U.S.) at launch. The RHC systems will initially be available for the Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer, Citroën Jumper (from 2006), and Opel Movano (from 2021).
Key Advantages of the RHC Control System:
- Automatic Level Control: Measurement via level sensors, not pressure sensors. This ensures the RHC control system automatically maintains the defined ride height, even when the vehicle height changes due to loading.
- Compact Control Panel: With a width of just 57 mm, a height of 32 mm, and a thickness of 2.5 mm, the RHC control panel is aesthetically pleasing and space-saving.
- Safety: The RHC system prevents user errors and alerts the driver with an LED light on the control panel when the ride height deviates.
- Ease of Use: A simple tap of the finger is all it takes to activate the ride height, raise, or lower the rear of the vehicle. This improves the approach angle, making it easier to traverse ramps or steep inclines.
- Intuitive Smartphone App: The smartphone app allows not only the activation of the ride height but also independent adjustment of the left and right sides. Additionally, an extra individual position can be stored.
- Ease of Installation: The RHC air suspension systems are available as plug-and-play kits, significantly simplifying installation. The com- pressor and valve block come pre-assembled on a vehicle-specific mounting console, eliminating the need to route air lines into the driver’s cab.
- Availability: The new RHC air suspension systems will be available from January 2025 for the Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer, and Citroën Jumper (from 2006), as well as the Opel Movano (from 2021). Additional vehicle types will follow.
- Introductory Price Until March 31, 2025: €1,399, plus installation and TÜV inspection. The complete price, including installation at Goldschmitt Technik-Centres, is €1,999.
