Photo: Cadillac; ZF Lenksysteme
Although electric power steering systems don't have as many fans as the good ol' hydraulic assist, automotive technology is a fickle friend and this change is slowly but steadily becoming the industry standard. So how does the ZF Lenksysteme system improve the dynamic credentials of the 2015 Cadillac ATS sedan & coupe?
ZF Lenksysteme and Cadillac engineers teamed up to create what the manufacturer describes as being a "premium electric power steering" system that "refines ride without sacrificing handling." We can't really put our finger on that unless we spend a little time behind the wheel of the 2015 Cadillac ATS and we all know that practice rarely lives up to what's promised in theory.
Nevertheless, there are some good sides to the system that are certain to offer an enhanced driving experience in real life situations. Starting with the mechanical steering system, the "electronic" part offers a wide range of assist depending on velocity, steering angle and the car's chassis mode. Simply put, it blends good steering feedback at highway speeds without sacrificing turning radius in those tight parking spaces in the urban jungle.
Kevin Woodward from ZF Lenksysteme explains that "the electronic power assist steering gives a wider range of assist, resulting in an incredibly communicative, well-weighted and responsive steering experience," thanks to revised programming within the electronic control unit. Another good point of electric steering compared to a hydraulic system is that it saves fuel since engine power isn't directly required to assist gear movement.
ZF Lenksysteme and Cadillac tell that the premium electric power steering that equips the 2015 model year Cadillac ATS sedan & coupe has great torsional stiffness and low operating friction to enhance the feel of the wheel with "almost perfect linear response." Additionally, the steering column and intermediate shaft feature stiff, direct-acting and low-friction ball bearing designs for a more immediate, connected-to-the-road feel for the driver.
Nevertheless, there are some good sides to the system that are certain to offer an enhanced driving experience in real life situations. Starting with the mechanical steering system, the "electronic" part offers a wide range of assist depending on velocity, steering angle and the car's chassis mode. Simply put, it blends good steering feedback at highway speeds without sacrificing turning radius in those tight parking spaces in the urban jungle.
Kevin Woodward from ZF Lenksysteme explains that "the electronic power assist steering gives a wider range of assist, resulting in an incredibly communicative, well-weighted and responsive steering experience," thanks to revised programming within the electronic control unit. Another good point of electric steering compared to a hydraulic system is that it saves fuel since engine power isn't directly required to assist gear movement.
ZF Lenksysteme and Cadillac tell that the premium electric power steering that equips the 2015 model year Cadillac ATS sedan & coupe has great torsional stiffness and low operating friction to enhance the feel of the wheel with "almost perfect linear response." Additionally, the steering column and intermediate shaft feature stiff, direct-acting and low-friction ball bearing designs for a more immediate, connected-to-the-road feel for the driver.
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