Mercedes-Benz is set to revolutionise steering with the introduction of steer-by-wire technology in its production vehicles starting 2026—the first German automaker to do so.
This system eliminates the mechanical link between the steering wheel and the front wheels, replacing it with an electronic signal that transmits steering input via wire, offering a totally new driving feel and a highly responsive experience.
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This next-gen setup makes manoeuvring smoother, especially in cities and tight spaces, where it removes the need to re-grip the wheel while parking. Steering effort is significantly reduced, and vibrations from rough roads are nearly eliminated.
The system integrates seamlessly with rear-axle steering (up to 10°) to enhance agility, directional stability, and the balance between sportiness and comfort.
The design potential is massive. With no mechanical steering column, the interior gains flexibility—a flatter steering wheel improves space and screen visibility, supports easier entry/exit, and opens up options for new layouts and even in-car gaming during breaks.
Adaptability is built-in, too: steering feel can be tailored to match different vehicle variants, driving modes, or brand styles.
As Markus Schäfer, CTO at Mercedes-Benz, put it: steer-by-wire isn’t just about better handling—it lays the groundwork for immersive features in future automated driving, like enhanced media experiences during SAE Level 3 autonomous cruising.
Behind the scenes, safety is ensured through rigorous testing—over a million kilometres on test benches and real roads.
A redundant system architecture includes dual actuators, signal paths, and backup power/data supplies, ensuring full steering function even in the rare case of a failure. Should everything go offline, rear-axle steering and selective braking can still maintain vehicle control.
This breakthrough continues a long line of Mercedes steering innovations—from the first wheel in 1894, power steering in 1958, to rear-axle steering in 2020 and the DRIVE PILOT system in 2022. With steer-by-wire, Mercedes-Benz is again redefining the driver-car connection, turning the steering wheel into a digital interface for the road ahead.
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