American automotive company Ford Motor Company is set to introduce a new generation steering technology which enables drivers to easily maneuver vehicles at low speeds and in tight spaces.
The new technology called Adaptive Steering was developed by Ford along with with Takata, an automotive steering and safety systems supplier and a Ford Aligned Business Framework partner.
With this new technology, the Adaptive Steering changes the ratio between the driver's actions at the steering wheel - the number of turns - and how much the front wheels turn, as compared to fixed steering ration in traditional vehicles.
The steering ratio with Ford technology continually changes with vehicle speed to optimize the steering response in all conditions.
Ford group vice president, Global Product Development Raj Nair said, "First and foremost, all Ford Motor Company products have to offer a great driving experience. This new steering technology can make any vehicle easier to maneuver and more fun to drive."
To be available in select vehicles from 2015, the Adaptive Steering system employs a precision-controlled electric motor actuator placed inside the steering wheel. The actuator and gearing system has the ability to add or subtract from a driver's steering inputs.
At lower speeds during pulling into a parking space or maneuvering in tight quarters, the system makes the vehicle more agile and easier to turn, as it dials more steering into the road wheel, while at highway speeds, the system further optimizes steering response, enabling the vehicle to react more smoothly and precisely to driver input.
