Toyota Expected To Bring Steer-By-Wire System In Its Upcoming Electric Cars; Know What It Is And How It Works

Japanese automobile giant Toyota is planning to develop its ‘steer-by-wire technology’ and incorporate it into its production models by the end of 2024. Toyota bZ4X EV SUV and its counterpart, the Lexus RZ will be the first models to feature this technology in mass production.

A notable difference to the steer-by-wire system is that it lacks a mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels and adopts a new 200-degree steering ratio instead of the previous 150-degree ratio. This change will provide the steering a smoother and more natural movement. Toyota's engineers that are working on the system have claimed that the new steering ratio provides a more ‘convenient and familiar feel’ to customers.

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Toyota’s steer-by-wire technology will first be available in Toyota’s EV models like the Toyota bZ4X and the Lexus RZ. This technology has been developed to meet the strict regulations around ‘steer-by-wire’ systems which were initially in place in Europe but have now been taken over by China's stricter regulations.

Toyota’s engineers have also revealed that the steer-by-wire system will be integrated into the new modular architecture that will underpin Toyota and Lexus electric vehicles from 2026. The new modular architecture with the steer-by-wire technology will first be used in a new Lexus sedan which will be based on the LF-ZC concept which has been displayed at the Japan Mobility Show.

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In addition to this, Toyota is also working on a more advanced version of the steer-by-wire system known as Neo Steer. This system relocates the accelerator and brake controls onto the steering wheel. With the Neo Steer, Toyota primarily aims to provide "mobility for all," especially for drivers who are unable to use foot controls. However, no specific production date for the Neo Steer technology has been set yet.