New Buick Verano Innovates with Classic Technology

May 23
15:46

2024

Jessica Harmon

Jessica Harmon

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The 2012 Buick Verano is set to revolutionize the driving experience by integrating classic steam engine technology in a novel way. This innovative approach aims to deliver the luxurious, smooth, and quiet ride that Buick is renowned for, while enhancing the vehicle's agility and handling.

A Modern Twist on Steam Engine Technology

The 2012 Buick Verano is leveraging steam engine technology to elevate its luxury steering capabilities. Specifically,New Buick Verano Innovates with Classic Technology Articles the vehicle incorporates the Z-link design in its rear suspension, a concept rooted in the 19th-century invention known as Watt's linkage. This design is expected to provide a smoother and more controlled driving experience, particularly when navigating turns.

The Z-Link Design: A Historical Perspective

The Z-link design is inspired by Watt's linkage, a mechanism invented by James Watt in 1784 to improve the efficiency of steam engines. Watt's linkage ensures that pistons move in a straight line, which has been adapted in modern vehicles to stabilize the rear axle during turns. By refining this technology, Buick aims to enhance lateral stiffness and improve steering response.

Enhanced Driving Dynamics

The Z-link design in the Buick Verano offers several benefits:

  • Improved Cornering: The design centers the rear axle during turns, resulting in smoother and more precise handling.
  • Better Suspension Sync: It ensures that the rear suspension works in harmony with the front suspension, providing a balanced ride.
  • Ride Comfort: On straight roads, the Z-link design contributes to a comfortable and quiet ride.

Expert Insights

Matt Purdy, Verano Vehicle Performance Manager, stated, "By using a Z-link on Verano, we were able to achieve the crisp chassis dynamics, a smooth ride, and hushed road noise that Buick customers have come to expect. Z-link and other chassis refinements implemented on Verano are expected to deliver unmatched ride quality in the luxury compact car segment."

Commitment to Comfort and Efficiency

Buick's dedication to providing a superior driving experience extends beyond the Z-link design. The Verano's front suspension is crafted from lightweight materials to minimize vibrations and enhance fuel efficiency. Additionally, urethane cushions are used to further reduce unwanted vibrations, ensuring a quieter cabin.

Fuel Efficiency and Vibration Reduction

  • Lightweight Materials: The use of advanced materials in the front suspension helps reduce the vehicle's overall weight, contributing to better fuel economy.
  • Urethane Cushions: These cushions are strategically placed to absorb vibrations, enhancing ride comfort and reducing cabin noise.

Chuck Russell, Verano's Vehicle Line Director, added, "Verano couples these chassis technologies with remarkable acoustic refinement to deliver the quiet cabin, agile handling, and superior ride that our customers have come to expect from Buick."

Interesting Stats and Facts

  • Fuel Efficiency: The 2012 Buick Verano boasts an impressive fuel economy, with an estimated 21 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway (source: EPA).
  • Quiet Cabin: Buick's QuietTuning technology, which includes acoustic laminated glass and triple door seals, significantly reduces road noise, making the Verano one of the quietest vehicles in its class (source: Buick).
  • Advanced Safety Features: The Verano is equipped with 10 standard airbags, providing comprehensive protection for all passengers (source: NHTSA).

Conclusion

The 2012 Buick Verano exemplifies how classic technology can be reimagined to meet modern demands. By integrating the Z-link design, Buick has enhanced the vehicle's handling, comfort, and overall driving experience. This innovative approach, combined with advanced materials and acoustic refinements, ensures that the Verano continues to uphold Buick's legacy of luxury and performance.

For more information on the 2012 Buick Verano and its innovative features, visit the official Buick website.