Ford Motor Company has redefined “power steering” technology for its all-new Edge CUV. The innovative steering technology is set to be a gamechanger. Ford’s adaptive steering will make it easier for drivers to steer the vehicle at low speeds while making it more fun and flexible to drive at high speeds. Adaptive steering is offered as a standard option on the all-new Edge Sport, and is also available on Edge Titanium.
Speaking about the innovative technology, Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development said that the priority is for all Ford Motor Company products to offer a great driving experience. He said that the new steering technology is meant to make vehicles easy to maneuver and fun to drive.
Simply explained, adaptive steering alters the ratio between the driver’s actions at the steering wheel – the number of turns – and the degree to which the front wheels turn. Normally, in vehicles which do not have this technology, there is a fixed steering ratio. The use of an adaptive steering system makes it possible for this ratio to change continually in accordance with changes in vehicle speed, thus optimizing the steering response in all conditions.
When a car is moving at a slower speed as in parking spaces or in areas where there is little space for maneuvering, fewer turns of the steering wheel are required. In cases where the speed is high and they is plenty of room, the steering response should be optimized to allow the vehicle to react more smoothly to each steering input.
The adaptive steering system was created by Ford in collaboration with engineers from TKAG, a German automotive supplier and uses a precision-controlled actuator placed inside the steering wheel. The actuator is essentially an electric motor and gearing system that can modify a driver’s steering inputs depending on the speed and the space available. Using an adaptive steering system requires no major changes to be made to a vehicle’s traditional steering system while it provides motorists with a better driving experience at all speeds, irrespective of the size or class of the vehicle.
After it makes its debut on the all-new Edge, Ford plans to make the adaptive steering system available for other Ford and Lincoln vehicles in the future.
