Mercedes-Benz is preparing to introduce “steer-by-wire” technology, a system in which the car is controlled electronically, without a physical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels. As confirmed by the German manufacturer, this technology will make its debut in the upcoming, redesigned EQS sedan, marking their first foray into the world of fully electronic control.
What is steer-by-wire and how does it work?
Steer-by-wire systems replace traditional mechanical steering mechanisms with electronically controlled servo motors. This technology, common in airplanes, takes the driver’s inputs from the steering wheel and transmits them to electronic actuators that then steer the car’s wheels. The advantage is the almost complete removal of unwanted vibrations from the road, which enhances the feeling of luxury while driving.
Mercedes emphasizes that it is not completely abandoning electromechanical steering, which means that it plans to offer versions of the EQS with traditional technology alongside models equipped with the new system. Before approval for production, the company covered more than one million test kilometers with the new system. Safety is key, so a redundant architecture with dual signal paths, dual actuators and backup power is used, along with high-precision sensors and powerful control units. In the event of a primary system failure, the car can still be steered via rear axle steering and targeted braking of individual wheels.
“These two signal paths ensure that steering capability is always guaranteed,” says Mercedes.
Controversial yoke and divided opinions
Along with the new technology, the EQS will also get a new yoke steering wheel that is sure to divide fans of the brand. It looks like steering wheels from racing cars or airplane cockpits, with a flat top and bottom. Many car manufacturers have already tried to popularize such steering wheels, including Tesla, Lexus and Toyota, but have often given up after complaints from owners and safety experts.
Mercedes claims that the new steering wheel instantly transforms the interior of the EQS. They believe that the flattened shape will allow drivers to have an unobstructed view of the instrument panel and make it easier to get in and out of the vehicle. Due to the specific design without the top rim, Mercedes had to develop a completely new airbag technology. However, the lack of firm grip when turning at higher speeds or the comfort that a classic steering wheel provides on long journeys cannot be ignored.
Early reactions to the new system in EQS are quite positive. The Drive portal praised it as a “yoke steering wheel that actually works”, while InsideEV’s “steer-by-wire” system called it “the best on the market”, but was more reserved in its praise of the steering wheel itself.