Marking 140 years since its first automobile, Mercedes-Benz is shaking up steering tech in the updated EQS by ditching the traditional mechanical linkage. The new model replaces the physical connection between the steering wheel and wheels with a fully electronic steer-by-wire system.
Instead of a metal shaft transmitting the driver’s input, sensors now detect steering movements and send signals to onboard computers. These computers then control electric motors that turn the wheels directly, turning driving into a digital experience reminiscent of a video game.
One major benefit of this steer-by-wire system setup is the elimination of steering wheel vibrations caused by uneven road surfaces. Instead, the system calculates and delivers force feedback electronically, preserving a natural steering feel but without unpleasant jolts.
Low-speed maneuvers-especially parking-are easier too. The system makes the steering more sensitive at slow speeds, allowing significant wheel angle changes with just a slight turn of the steering wheel. This reduces the need for constant hand repositioning in tight spaces.
The cabin has also been redesigned around the new steering system. The EQS now sports a compact, yoke-style steering wheel, which frees up additional legroom and improves visibility to the digital instrument cluster, enhancing overall driver comfort.
Safety hasn’t been overlooked. The Mercedes-Benz steer-by-wire system is built with dual redundancy: if one communication channel fails, the other takes over instantly. Even if the system loses power completely, the EQS maintains control using individual wheel braking and rear-axle steering assist.
The EQS’s rear wheels can steer up to 10 degrees. At high speeds, they turn in the same direction as the front wheels to improve stability, while at low speeds and during parking, they turn opposite to the front wheels, making this large electric sedan surprisingly nimble.
The new yoke-style steering wheel design presented a challenge for traditional airbags, which rely on a round rim for deployment. Mercedes-Benz engineered a specially folded airbag mechanism tailored to this unconventional shape, ensuring reliable and effective deployment.
The revamped Mercedes-Benz EQS demonstrates how digital steer-by-wire controls are redefining the driving experience-making it smoother, safer, and more advanced. As automakers worldwide adopt steer-by-wire technology, Mercedes-Benz is pushing the envelope on how far digital steering can go in luxury electric vehicles.