The regenerative break has been a workhorse in increasing the fuel efficency of hybrid cars, buses and trains, but why stop there? That's what researchers at Tufts University had in mind when they expanded the efficiency concept to auto suspension.

Their magnetic shock absorber (pdf) uses the normal motion of a vehicle over the road to charge drive-assisting batteries. Tufts' new technology is so promising that they've already licensed it exclusively to Electric Truck, LLC., an alt-energy transportation company based in Greenwich, CT.

Tufts University’s Office for Technology Licensing and Industry Collaboration believes their electric shock can improve a car's MPG by 20-70% and may work best in heavier vehicles like SUVs and school buses.

“We are extremely happy with Tufts’ development in this area, and see sales to the fastest growing market segment of hybrid vehicles to be a highly desirable way to contribute toward global climate change mitigation and petroleum independence,” said ET co-founder and CEO David Holst-Grubbe.

Acquisition of the hybrid shocks may be more than a market strategy. ET is also a participant in the 100-mpg Automotive X-Prize competition and can be expected to use their new technology in their entry.

With bumps in the road netting better mileage, drivers may find city potholes irresistible targets.

Photo by Flickr user By-Your-?