Nexteer said that its EPS systems achieve up to 4% fuel savings compared to traditional hydraulic steering by eliminating the hydraulic pump, hoses and fluids and replacing them with a high-efficiency motor.
In addition, the motor only draws power from the battery when the driver needs power-steering assistance, compared with hydraulic steering that draws power continuously from the engine. As a result of fuel savings, vehicle emissions are also reduced. This on-demand power draw from EPS also delivers up to 3hp additional to the driven wheels.
Ted Seeger, global chief engineer of electric steering at Nexteer Automotive, said: “Although it seems counter-intuitive that a high-performance sports car includes a green, responsive electric power steering system, muscle-car enthusiasts will appreciate the enhanced steering feel and handling. It won’t be long before more sports cars use EPS for these benefits and the increased fuel efficiency it provides.”
Mike Richardson, vice president of steering business unit at Nexteer Automotive, said: “We are planning $40m in future investments for our operations, technology and equipment in the coming years, a majority of which is ear-marked for green steering technologies like EPS.
“We have a global footprint that will be optimized to support our diverse customer base around the world, including NAFTA-produced EPS for Ford’s Mustang.”
Nexteer currently has column, pinion and rack-assisted EPS systems in mass production.
