2010 Porsche 911 GT3 will be the First Car to Use Magnetic Engine Mounts

Magneto rheological (MR) fluid can make physics class fun! It has the ability to quickly alter its physical property from a low-viscosity liquid to a very stiff, nearly solid substance in milliseconds with introduction of a magnetic field. Well now, thanks to Delphi, this technology, that used to only be used in shock absorbers, is going to be used in engine mounts. And the first car to get these new mounts is the 2010 Porsche 911 GT3.

With these new engine mounts, controlling the noise and vibration of the powertrain will be much easier and can improve stability and traction, especially during "transient torque events." As someone who recently busted an engine mount, transmission mount and torque mount, I can safely say that this is very true and it also greatly improves the car's comfort level. Plus, as in my case, if one mount goes, more can easily go, too.

Expect to see these new mounts start on high-performance and luxury vehicles first and then make their way down to more consumer friendly cars in the future, after the prices have dropped.