The F-150 still counts among the best selling models in the United States and is one of the first pick-up trucks to feature the technology that was up till now associated with smaller vehicles and was believed to be insufficient for larger vehicles. The technology is supposed to lower the fuel consumption by four percent, on average, compared to conventional hydraulic steering systems.
“The system in the Ford F-150 shows the potential for further applications of Nexteer’s technology in large vehicles. It handles the largest rack-loads of any EPS system today and offers heavier vehicles improved performance and fuel economy,” said Nexteer’s global chief engineer Ted Seeger.
EPS systems save fuel because the electric motor only requires power when the driver needs steering assistance. Sensors detect the motion and torque of the steering column and apply torque via an electric motor coupled directly to either the steering column or the steering gear. Using an electric motor results in significant weight and space savings compared with hydraulic belt driven pump systems that need to provide a constant hydraulic pressure. Additionally, the electric system can be integrated with other on-board electronic controls to improve performance and safety.
A next step in the evolution of steering systems will be steer-by-wire, leading to further savings in weight, space and power, removing the mechanical link between the steering wheel and the wheels and several high-pressure hydraulic hoses between the engine and the steering gear.
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