5 ms·
And the "previous generation" of power steering was hydraulic, which had a similar behaviour and setup in that it is an amplification of steering input. Electr
by T3OU-736 5y ago
And the "previous generation" of power steering was hydraulic, which had a similar behaviour and setup in that it is an amplification of steering input.
Electric power steering allows for configurability of steering difficulty, which tends to engender the feeling of precision at a certain point along the effort curve. (Variable for different people, naturally).
Plus, with more powerful electric systems (better alternators, basically), moving hydraulic steering pump from belt-driven frees up the engine a bit, yielding less drag and better fuel efficiency.
But fundamentally, I believe that in modern vehicles, due to their weight, direct steering linkages are a bit rare.
- Retric 5y agoDirect steering linkages are a major safety feature that isn’t going away because at high speed you need minimal steering input. My power steering died in a 3,000 lb car and I didn’t get it replaced for a few weeks because it was only noticeable at very low speeds.
- DerekRobot 5y agoPersonally, I prefer electric steering because it takes so little torque input. My Mercedes cabrio was heavy and tiring to steer, but I can steer the Mirage with my fingertips. As a bonus, the steering is tuned to "tighten up" at speed, which effectively makes the car snappier without actually changing the alignment.