ZF has reached a landmark moment in its production of automotive electric power steering (EPS) systems, having produced its 100 millionth system.
Hydraulic power steering systems dominated the market when ZF introduced its first EPS system in 2001. The following years have seen demand for EPS increase as vehicle manufacturers have strived to improve energy efficiency (EPS only consumes energy when the steering is engaged) and reduce emissions in vehicles (it is also lighter than hydraulic systems), and have been progressing with software-defined vehicle architectures.
ZF’s product portfolio of EPS spans vehicle applications ranging from compact passenger cars to high-performance SUVs and light commercial vehicles. The systems are available in column-drive, dual-pinion and belt-drive configurations to meet various vehicle and performance requirements.
The role of EPS in software-defined vehicles
EPS is becoming a key enabler for software-defined vehicles and forms the basis for steer-by-wire systems, in which there is no mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels. ZF is already developing and producing steer-by-wire systems at its facilities in Asia, South America and Europe.
ZF says that its UK R&D facility has played a key role in creating its EPS and steer-by-wire systems. “Reaching 100 million electric power steering systems is a proud milestone for ZF and a testament to the innovation that has transformed steering technology over the past two decades,” said Jake Morris, site leader at the ZF Technical Centre UK and portfolio director for ZF’s steer-by-wire products.
“We are especially proud that the journey began in the UK, with Technical Centre UK playing a key role in the design and development of the early EPS systems that helped pioneer the transition from hydraulic to electric steering. Today, that same engineering expertise continues to contribute to the next generation of steering technologies, supporting the development of software-defined vehicles and advanced by-wire solutions.”
