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Ford Unveils New Steering System

May 29, 2014 innovations, carparts, news

Ford Unveils New Steering System

According a media statement made on Wednesday, Ford has unveiled its solution for drivers tired of cranking steering wheels to maneuver into tight parking spots. It is also aimed at making a vehicle more agile and fun to drive at higher speeds.
Ford's new system requires around 2 steering wheel revolutions to reverse into a parking space, instead of the usual three or more. The automaker confirmed in the US yesterday that it plans to launch the new system within the next year. It works by virtue of a change in the layout of the conventional rack, pinion and metal shaft connected to the steering wheel, and was created with the assistance of the Japanese supplier Takata Corporation.

The system uses a precision-controlled actuator placed inside the steering wheel, and requires no change to a vehicle’s traditional steering system. The actuator – an electric motor and gearing system – can essentially add to or subtract from a driver’s steering inputs. The result is a better driving experience at all speeds, regardless of vehicle size or class.

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