Steer-by-Wire

Steer-by-Wire (SbW) enables advanced features and functionality not possible with traditional steering systems because it replaces the mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the roadwheels with algorithms, electronics and actuators. The resulting system unlocks advanced safety and performance features while opening new possibilities for vehicle light-weighting and packaging flexibility. SbW emulates the “feel of the road,” offers a wide performance range (including sporty, luxury, comfort, etc.) and enhances maneuverability through our dynamic variable steering ratio.

The SbW system is comprised of two main components, the handwheel actuator (HWA) and the roadwheel actuator (RWA), each of which communicates signals to create a next-level connection between the driver and road. The HWA communicates driver inputs to the roadwheels and returns road surface and steering feel feedback to the driver, while the RWA converts the driver’s inputs into roadwheel actuation and communicates roadwheel feedback to the HWA.

OEM Benefits: Flexibility & Brand Differentiator

Enables re-use of components across platforms (Left-Hand Drive/Right-Hand Drive, EVs/ICE/Mixed Propulsion, etc.)
Enhances flexibility of under-hood packaging & front of dash design (especially important in EV battery packaging)
Enables intelligent, cost-saving steering strategies
Potentially saves assembly time with automatic alignment of the roadwheels & handwheel
Applies to traditional, automated & mixed mode driving
Creates a brand differentiator by delivering advanced safety & performance with uncompromising steering feel
Preferred enabler of Automatic Emergency Steering (AES)

Driver Benefits: Safety & Performance

Enhances stability control & braking distance
Improves weather & road condition compensation
Improves driver comfort by enabling Nexteer’s Quiet Wheel™ Steering & Stowable Steering Column
Immerses driver into a “branded” driving experience – with highly tuned steering feel ranging from luxury to sporty
Preferred enabler of AES

Award-Winning Steer-by-Wire with Stowable Steering Column Technologies

Our innovative combination of SbW with Stowable Steering Column was recognized as a 2021 Automotive News PACEpilot Innovation to Watch and a CES 2022 Innovation Award Honoree. Our award-winning combination reinvents the “behind-the-wheel” experience and opens an untapped frontier of advanced safety and performance features for autonomous and traditional driving.

When paired together, Nexteer’s SbW with Stowable Steering Column opens a new world of cockpit design options and changes how drivers can use their vehicles – creating the opportunity for OEMs to re-invent and re-purpose the driver’s cabin space.

As a proven SbW expert, Nexteer is committed to helping our OEM customers make a seamless transition to SbW by leveraging our specialized expertise on safety-critical steering and software and our vehicle integration experience.

Steer-by-Wire with Quiet Wheel™ Steering

Our Quiet Wheel™ Steering is an advanced steering software feature that is made possible by SbW. Quiet Wheel™ Steering adds another level of safety, convenience and comfort for drivers by allowing the steering wheel to remain still during SAE ADAS Levels 2-5 maneuvers, as well as automated driving applications.

Keeping the steering wheel still during hands-off ADAS maneuvers like parallel park assist eliminates the potential hazard of a fast-rotating wheel in front of the driver AND creates a more peaceful and comfortable environment in the cabin.

When Quiet Wheel™ Steering is paired with our Stowable Steering Column, the still steering wheel can also retract into the dashboard when automated driving is engaged – thus increasing space for driver comfort and other activities. This creates a more spacious cabin area that allows drivers to take full advantage of automated driving features and gives them more room to enjoy their ride.

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