Abstract
This great value Intelligence Set includes the third edition of our steering
systems reports, PLUS profiles of Aisin Seiki, Dana, Mitsubishi, NSK, TRW,
Visteon and ZF.
For many years, power steering technology was focused on hydraulic systems but
demand is now favouring electric power steering (EPS) mainly due to fuel
consumption and logistical benefits. EPS systems effectively eliminate the
traditional hydraulic system's power steering pump, hoses, hydraulic fluid,
and drive belt and pulley on the engine.
There is no doubt, therefore, that EPS systems are headed for the mass-market
worldwide, helped by their potential to save manufacturers money, reduce
customers' fuel bills, save designers valuable space, and possibly save lives
as well.
In the meantime, electro-hydraulic steering appears to be sticking around
despite the early assumptions that this was a 'transition technology' before
it went to full electric. An auto executive told just-auto: "It is continuing
to do quite well. In fact, our volumes of products are continuing to grow
which is a good thing. In the early days, everyone thought it would be a
transition technology but it has certainly found its place and continues to be
out there."
Another executive added: "As far as electro hydraulics steering is concerned,
everyone thought this was some sort of transition technology before we went
for full electric. But we are now finding that this technology is sticking
around. We have got a huge business in electro hydraulic steering,
particularly in Europe. These systems are being made more efficient. Another
trend is idle torque hydraulic overlay. The BMW 7 Series has got it although
it is quite expensive - EUR700 plus. We can do it virtually free with our EPS
system."
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