Das PRE-SCAN-Fahrwerk des F 700 erkennt den Zustand der Fahrbahn im Voraus und reagiert auf Schlaglöcher oder Bodenwellen sehr schnell und ausgleichend. Zugleich reduziert es Karosseriebewegungen in einem bisher nicht gekannten Ausmaß – das Auto scheint auf der Straße zu schweben.

All of this is made possible by two laser sensors that are integrated into the LED headlights. These sensors are part of a LIDAR (light detection and ranging) system, which uses a radar-like technique to measure distances. The sensors transmit pulsed laser beams in the invisible infrared range and then detect the laser light reflected by the road. The system measures the time lag between pulse transmission and reflection to calculate the distance to irregularities in the road surface.

If the system registers a bump, for example, the control unit will select at lightning speed the optimal regulating strategy to ensure the wheels roll over it in the best possible manner. In such a situation, the PRE-SCAN chassis also utilizes the data other vehicle sensors have collected on the driving situation, such as speed, braking distances, and lateral acceleration in curves.

As a result, the vehicle can make the Active Body Control’s damping of each individual wheel stiffer or softer and thus increase or decrease the wheel load.

The ABC system, which is available in the Mercedes-Benz S, SL, and CL-Class, was modified and improved by the engineers for use in this extremely comfortable research vehicle. The electronic control unit continually receives information on the current driving situation from a range of acceleration sensors. It then compares this data with readings from the pressure sensors in the ABC hydraulic system and the level sensors on the control arms. Thanks to the the high pressure, which is maintained on a continuous basis, and precisely calculated oil flows in the hydraulic system, the innovative chassis can correct and stabilize a rolling body in just a fraction of a second.