Tesla may soon introduce a pioneering steer-by-wire system to its next-generation electric vehicles as it recently patented this technology, TCD reports.
The race to develop the steer-by-wire system intensifies as Japanese auto brand Lexus also aims to launch an EV model with a similar breakthrough.
What is a steer-by-wire system?
Tesla’s new steer-by-wire system concept ultimately cuts the need for mechanical connections between the steering wheel and ground wheels.
Instead, this system leverages the electrical connections of the steering wheel to the exterior wheels.
Interestingly, Tesla has already hinted at this new system development for many years. It supports a more flexible yoke steering design. As a result, the automaker can utilize the extra space in the cockpit for additional settings and layouts.
EV-a2z previously reported that Tesla’s yoke steering wheel for the revamped Model S and X gained negative feedback from many owners. It must be noted that they did not feature the new steer-by-wire system. Consequently, owners and car reviewers got disappointed with Tesla’s forceful implementation of the new steering yoke as they did not understand its purpose.
In response, Tesla eventually allowed them to switch to traditional steering wheels for an additional price.
Finally, Tesla has advanced in the steer-by-wire system development. It ultimately enabled the company to officially patent the technology.
Presented below is Tesla’s written abstract for the patent filing:
| “A vehicle steering system by wire to control the lateral motion of the vehicle is provided. The system includes a steering wheel torque feedback actuator assembly with two controllers, a front road wheel steering actuator assembly with two zonally isolated motors and controllers, two separate power assemblies, two separate vehicle communication networks in separate wiring bundle assemblies, and three private system communication networks between each node in the steering system. The redundant components are zonally isolated such that common causes of faults do not endanger the system when one or more of the components fails. The system can include a differential gearbox road wheel actuator to allow the absolute position of the road wheels. The system can further include a set of position sensor assemblies including two magnetic and one inductive sensor assemblies.” |
See Also:
- Tesla will launch upgraded yoke steering in July 2023
- Tesla reverses course on Yoke, reintroduces round ‘Steering Wheel’ option
- Speculated Tesla minibus prototype makes first video appearance
- Tesla to launch new Model S Plaid “track package” with a remarkable top speed
- Porsche unveils Mission X concept – a bubbly, all-electric hypercar
Tesla’s move to patent the new steer-by-wire technology may be part of its efforts to advance its full self-driving software. It can also improve traditional human driving by adjusting the steering for the modern yoke steering wheel.
