Steer-by-wire technology is a brilliant leap in vehicular innovation. It allows manufacturers to trim the fat in the steering rack and creates a sleeker, newer system under the hood. But there are also a few concerns about whether it’s really safe to use and whether the benefits are worth the extra risk. Today, we’ll look at what steer-by-wire is, how it works, what it offers, and whether using it is a good idea.
Steer-by-Wire Explained
Steer-by-wire cars don’t have a mechanical connection between their steering wheel and their wheels. In a typical steering system, when the driver steers the wheel, it twists the steering rack and rotates the steering shaft, which rotates a set of pinions and other mechanical components to turn the wheel accordingly. In modern vehicles, this process is electronically assisted by an electric motor either attached to the steering rack or inline with the steering shaft.
With steer-by-wire, the steering instead relies on sensors, removing the steering shaft from the system entirely. The sensor measures how far the driver steers the steering wheel to either direction, conveying this information to the steering rack via a controller. The motor on the steering rack then turns the wheels accordingly.
There’s also a feedback system so the driver can feel the road better while on a drive. In a traditional steering system, the driver receives feedback on the state of the road thanks to the steering wheel’s mechanical connections to the wheels. In a steer-by-wire system, the electric motor connected to the steering rack, also known as the steering control actuator (SCA), detects the state of the road surface via the tires and relays this info to the steering torque actuator (STA). The STA mimics the feel of the road surface, triggering haptic feedback on the steering wheel for the driver to feel and react to.
Steer-by-Wire Benefits
One of the main benefits of steer-by-wire technology is the flexibility it provides manufacturers. It’s a much sleeker system than the traditional mechanical steering system, and it allows manufacturers more experimentation with vehicle interiors and functions.
Reduced mechanical connections means less frequent mechanical failures in the steering system. Steer-by-wire systems are also lighter than traditional steering systems. The by-wire system can alter steering ratio as needed as well, making u-turns and parking much easier on the driver.
On its own, steer-by-wire tech can also independently adjust the vehicle’s handling to better suit the driver’s habits and the vehicle’s capabilities. When used in tandem with other by-wire technology, steer-by-wire can also provide enhanced safety for drivers and passengers.
Vehicles With Steer-by-Wire Technology
Steer-by-wire technology is relatively rare in the automotive industry, but it is available. Back in 2013, Nissan released the Infiniti Q50, the first steer by-wire production vehicle . They also offered this technology as an option in their QX50 and QX55 compact crossovers and included it in their 2017 Q60 coupe.
Lexus took steer-by-wire tech even further with their 2024 RZ450e, eliminating the steering shaft entirely from its design. Meanwhile, Toyota calls the steer-by-wire system in their 2024 BZ4X electric SUV “One Motion Grip”. There are reports that the Tesla Cybertruck will have a steer-by-wire as well.
Steer-by-Wire Safety Concerns
Of course, like all developing technology, steer-by-wire has a few drawbacks that many drivers are concerned about. For instance, because steer-by-wire systems rely on a computer, it’s possible for hackers to gain control of the system.
Faulty programming or defective components can also affect how well steer-by-wire functions, and when it comes to controlling the car, this can be a major concern. Thankfully, there are safety measures in place to reduce these risks. Some steer-by-wire vehicles even have a mechanical backup in place just in case.
While steer-by-wire is relatively new in vehicles, the aviation industry has been using by-wire technology for years. There’s no doubt that as manufacturers improve their designs and programs, steer-by-wire systems will only grow more reliable over time. If you still have qualms about having a steer-by-wire system in your vehicle, you can always wait for further advancements.
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