"The push toward increasing fuel economy and reducing emissions is driving vehicle electrification on a global level and EPS is one of the key technologies helping automakers meet the new requirements," said Ted Seeger, global chief engineer - electric steering, Nexteer Automotive. "The direct benefit to drivers, in addition to fuel savings, is a host of ancillary features that improve safety and performance. As a result, EPS will become the steering technology of choice during the next decade."
According to Nexteer, the application has three key assets that will allow it to become a widespread solution. First of all, the EPS system eliminates the need for pumps and hoses and only uses energy when the vehicle steers, therefore increasing the car’s fuel efficiency. In addition to that, the EPS is required by all hybrid/all electric vehicles for electric mode steering operation. The EPS can also be integrated into complex safety systems, such as lane departure warning, parking assist and speed variable steering.
"Drivers associate steering with 'feel'," Seeger said. "The first EPS systems lacked the sophistication to make the systems feel 'normal'. However, today's systems are so advanced that drivers are unable to differentiate a traditional hydraulic system from EPS - a significant milestone for the technology. Now, we're able to add active features like speed-sensitive steering to enhance performance and handling."
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