Ford has announced a new feature that will debut first on the 2016 Edge Sport and Titanium as standard features. The new feature is called Ford adaptive steering and it is designed to make it easier to control a car at low speeds and makes the car more stable at highway speeds. Most vehicles have a fixed ratio for steering that controls how many turns of the steering wheel turns the wheels on the pavement.
In the adaptive steering system, an actuator and an electronic gear system vary that steering ratio. The result is a car that is easier to maneuver when trying to park at low speeds in a crowded lot. The system also makes a car more stable at highway speeds by helping to smooth driver input.
How Adaptive Steering Works
The entire adaptive steering system is housed in the steering wheel of the car and requires no modifications to the normal steering system of the vehicle. This innovative design means that all Ford needs to do to bring the system to more vehicles in its line is change the steering wheel. The rollout will start with the 2016 Edge and will go to other Ford and Lincoln vehicles in the future.
The actuator within the steering wheel is a small electric motor and gearing system that can add or subtract rotations to the steering wheel input. At lower speeds, the system increases the steering ratio, meaning fewer turns of the steering wheel are needed to achieve the same degree of wheel turn. This makes parking and navigating tight spaces much easier. Conversely, at higher speeds, the system reduces the steering ratio, making the vehicle more stable and responsive to smaller steering inputs, which is particularly beneficial during highway driving.
Benefits and Future Applications
The benefits of adaptive steering are multifaceted. For urban drivers, the ease of maneuvering in tight spaces and crowded parking lots can significantly reduce the stress and effort associated with driving. For those who frequently drive on highways, the increased stability and smoother handling can enhance safety and comfort during long trips.
Moreover, adaptive steering can be particularly advantageous in adverse weather conditions. For instance, in heavy rain or snow, the system’s ability to adjust the steering ratio can help maintain better control of the vehicle, reducing the risk of skidding or losing traction.
Ford’s decision to house the entire system within the steering wheel also opens up possibilities for retrofitting the technology into existing models. This could potentially allow current Ford and Lincoln owners to upgrade their vehicles with adaptive steering, extending the benefits to a broader range of drivers.
In addition to the Edge, Ford plans to introduce adaptive steering across its lineup, including popular models like the Explorer, F-150, and Mustang. This widespread adoption underscores Ford’s commitment to enhancing driving dynamics and safety through innovative technology.
Furthermore, adaptive steering is not just limited to passenger vehicles. The technology could be adapted for use in commercial vehicles, such as delivery trucks and vans, where improved maneuverability and stability can lead to increased efficiency and reduced driver fatigue.
In conclusion, Ford’s adaptive steering represents a significant advancement in automotive technology, offering tangible benefits for drivers in various scenarios. As the technology becomes more widespread, it has the potential to set a new standard for vehicle handling and control, making driving safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
SOURCE: ford
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