ZF Group announced this week it has begun series production of its latest-generation steer-by-wire system for Chinese battery electric vehicle (BEV) manufacturer Nio Inc’s flagship ET9 model.
The German components manufacturer is a leading developer and manufacturer of drive-by-wire systems, including braking and steering systems that do not use direct mechanical or fluid-based connections. The company’s portfolio of purely electronically controlled steering and braking systems, and controlled damping systems, combined with its in-house cubiX software, form the basis of software-defined vehicles.
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ZF claims to have a significant share of the growing “by-wire” segment, with sales now driven by the company’s new Chassis Solutions Division which was established at the beginning of 2024.
ZF’s steer-by-wire steering system does not use a mechanical connection between the steering wheel and steering gear. Instead, it uses as a mechatronic actuator as the only source of steering power, with steering commands issued by a steering wheel actuator in the cockpit based on the angle of the rotation sensor. An electric drive, or torque feedback unit, reproduces the natural steering feel and feedback from the road.
Dr Peter Holdmann, a member of ZF’s Board of Management and head of the Chassis Solutions Division, said in a statement: “We are supplying customers with the steering of the future. With our production-ready steer-by-wire steering system, we are launching the era of the software-defined vehicle. With an entire portfolio of innovative by-wire technologies, we are a sought-after supplier and a key driver of future-oriented chassis technologies. ZF is thus establishing itself as a technology leader in this area and giving car manufacturers such as Nio new freedom in terms of design, comfort, driving functions and safety.”
Danilo Teobaldi, Principal Chief Engineer at Nio, said: “At Nio we are committed to delivering groundbreaking innovations that redefine premium driving experience. Steer-by-wire technology is a key enabler of software-defined vehicles, offering enhanced driving comfort, uncompromised dynamics, and future-proof technology. Our collaboration with ZF, a globally recognized leader in high-quality automotive solutions, is a testament to our ambition to set new industry benchmarks by deploying our smart EVs on a global-market stage.”
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