Mercedes-Benz is the first German manufacturer to use a by-wire steering system in mass production. Which supplier did this Stuttgart-based company collaborate with

The era of the mechanical steering column is coming to an end. More and more manufacturers are turning their attention to by-wire steering technology. According to Mercedes-Benz's own information, the company is the first German manufacturer aiming to put an electronic steering system into mass production in 2026.

The automaker anticipates numerous advantages from the electronic steering technology, such as in autonomous driving and in-vehicle entertainment, as well as in driving dynamics and safety. Markus Schäfer, the head of research and development, spoke about the "new era of mobility" at the Shanghai Auto Show.

New-Style Steering Wheel

The company has not officially named the model yet. However, pictures of the prototype show that this technology will be first applied to the facelifted EQS next year.

Part of the by-wire steering package that customers can choose is a new rectangular steering wheel, which allows for a better view of the cockpit screens. For example, if the vehicle takes over the steering during autonomous driving in the future and the steering wheel no longer moves, it will be more convenient to watch movies.

Absorbing Road Impacts

The steering system can respond differently according to various driving situations. For instance, there is no longer a need for excessive steering when parking, and the steering angle can be adjusted dynamically according to corresponding requirements. According to Mercedes-Benz, driving stability and lateral flexibility can also be further enhanced, especially since the EQS is equipped with a rear-axle steering system.

The impacts caused by road bumps, which were previously transmitted to the driver through the steering wheel, can be almost completely eliminated. The steering system can also be adjusted according to customers' personal preferences.

No Need for Modifications for Right-Hand Drive Vehicles

In fully autonomous vehicles, the steering wheel can retract into the dashboard in highly automated driving mode, creating extra space in front of the driver's seat. There are also advantages in vehicle design. Technically, it doesn't matter whether the vehicle is left-hand drive or right-hand drive. Only the steering wheel actuator changes the side of the cockpit. The engine compartment does not require complex modifications. This space can be used for other purposes, such as better heat insulation.

ZF as the Supplier

According to a Mercedes-Benz spokesperson, the EQS by-wire steering system was developed in collaboration with the supplier ZF. ZF also provides the rear axle for the EQS. A few weeks ago, ZF announced that it would also supply this system to the top - of - the - line models of NIO, a Chinese automaker.

Peter Holdmann, a member of ZF's management board, said, "With a complete set of innovative by-wire technologies, we have become a sought-after supplier and a major driver of future-oriented chassis technology." He stated that mass application shows that this strategy is correct and successful.

Bosch's Collaboration with Arnold NextG

Besides ZF, many other suppliers are also researching this topic. For example, Bosch has announced that it will launch this technology in the next few years. This technology is part of the new vehicle motion management, where software can control braking, steering, driving, and damping, enabling the car to handle various difficult situations with confidence.

In addition, the group is collaborating with the start-up Arnold NextG. This company claims to be a leader in the field of by-wire drive. It belongs to the Paravan Group and has accumulated years of experience in joystick steering and redundant systems through modifying vehicles for people with disabilities. Many other companies, such as Schaeffler, ThyssenKrupp, and Hella, are also working on this area.

Tesla's Cybertruck Adopts an Electronic Steering System

Mercedes-Benz is by no means the first company in the world to use a by-wire steering system in mass production. For example, Tesla's Cybertruck is already equipped with an electronic steering system. However, this system has been criticized during testing because if the wheels are blocked by an obstacle (such as a curb), the driver does not receive clear feedback on the steering wheel. In this case, the steering wheel can still be turned.

Lexus, a luxury brand under Toyota, plans to introduce a by-wire steering system and install a rectangular steering wheel in its electric SUV flagship model RZ, which was launched in 2023, this year, to provide more space for the driver. Cadillac's electric Lyriq and Celestiq models will also adopt by-wire steering systems starting from 2026.

Source：Automotive Manufacturing AP

Published by：AHTE Content Marketing Team