High-Output Steering Systems Capable of Handling Heavy Loads
September 29, 2021
As we move toward a world in which more vehicles plug in instead of fill up, technology in the entire vehicle will have to evolve – not just the components related to fuel.
At Nexteer, one way we’re supporting the industry’s electric evolution is through our complete line of underhood High-Output Electric Power Steering (EPS) Systems – which have increased output capabilities to meet the needs of heavier electric vehicles (EVs).
High-Output EPS for B-D Segment EVs
Our high-output options for Dual Pinion-Assist EPS (DPEPS) and Single Pinion-Assist EPS (SPEPS) systems increase the steering capability by 12 to 20% – up to 14.5 kilonewtons (kN) for DPEPS and up to 12.5kN for SPEPS.
These high-output solutions benefit OEM customers by enabling them to steer heavier EV loads in B through D segment vehicles without the need to move up to more premium EPS technologies that are traditionally employed for larger segment vehicles.
In addition to increased steering capabilities, High-Output DPEPS and SPEPS systems also provide design flexibility for EVs, compared with other EPS systems like Column-Assist EPS.
High-Output EPS for Trucks & LCVs
Nexteer also offers a High-Output Rack-Assist EPS (REPS) solution that nearly doubles the steering load capability of our industry-leading REPS – steering up to 24kN of load compared with 10-17kN for a typical REPS system. This system is capable of steering electric variations of heavy vehicles such as full-size pick-up trucks, people movers and light-commercial vehicles (LCVs) like delivery vans.
In addition to EVs, which are in many cases heavier than comparable internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, High-Output REPS can also convert heavy-duty (HD) trucks and LCVs, in the 3.5–6T segment, from hydraulic to electric power steering. Now with the ability to steer these vehicle types electrically, drivers of HD trucks and LCVs can benefit from enhanced fuel efficiency, as well as advanced safety and comfort features such as lane keep assist, crosswind compensation, trailer assist and more.
Our portfolio of high-output underhood EPS systems further enhances Nexteer’s position within the growing electrification trend – as well as capitalizes on our global market leadership in REPS and market leadership with SPEPS in Europe. These solutions strengthen our ability to meet the needs of our customers globally, while also offering new opportunities to expand our customer base and market diversification in an increasingly electrified future.
