The Infiniti Q50 will offer the latest steer-by-wire technology as an optional feature once the car goes on sale in the coming months.
According to a report from industry journal Automotive News, Infiniti, the premium division of Nissan, will offer the new Infiniti Direct Adaptive Steering steer-by-wire system as an option on certain Q50 models.
The technology relies on the use of digital signals rather than physical mechanical connections to translate the driver’s steering inputs into movement of the turning wheels, and follows the shift to other digital systems such as drive- and brake-by-wire.
While the system is intended to communicate road conditions into the vehicle’s safety system faster than existing systems, it will also allow drivers to select from one of 96 steering ratios to suit their individual preferences.
Following its official debut at the 2013 Detroit auto show back in January, details about both a hybrid powertrain and Mercedes-Benz-sourced petrol and diesel engines for the Infiniti Q50 have emerged ahead of the sedan’s European debut at next month’s Geneva motor show.
The Infiniti Q50, the replacement for the Infiniti G37 sedan, is due to launch in Australia in the fourth quarter of 2013. With final specifications are yet to be released, the range of petrol, diesel and hybrid powertrains, along with the Infiniti Direct Adaptive Steering steer-by-wire system, are all under consideration by Infiniti Australia.
