Mercedes-Benz has launched steer-by-wire technology on its updated EQS electric saloon, becoming the first German automaker to bring the system to a production vehicle.
The system replaces the traditional mechanical connection between the steering wheel and front wheels with electronic signals and will be offered across all EQS powertrain variants in combination with the model’s 10-degree rear-axle steering system.
Mercedes-Benz said the setup is designed to eliminate road surface vibrations from reaching the steering wheel while maintaining steering feel through model-based calculations of tyre-road interaction. The system is paired with a flattened, more compact steering wheel, which improves driver display visibility and facilitates easier entry and exit.
The technology has undergone more than one million kilometres of testing across benches, test tracks and public roads, according to the company.
To address safety, the steer-by-wire system uses a redundant architecture with two independent signal paths to ensure steering capability in the event of a fault. In a full system failure scenario, lateral vehicle control can still be maintained through rear-axle steering and wheel-specific braking via the electronic stability programme.
The redesigned steering wheel also required a new airbag concept. Mercedes-Benz said the updated structure includes an internal support and folding architecture to control airbag deployment while maintaining existing safety standards.
Electromechanical steering will continue to be offered as an alternative.