Mercedes-Benz has announced that it will become the first German automaker to adopt a steer-by-wire system in mass-produced vehicles starting in 2026. Steer-by-wire is a next-generation steering system that transmits steering commands through electronic signals rather than mechanical linkages between the steering wheel and the front wheels. This offers a new driving feel and greater design flexibility.
Traditionally, steering input from the wheel has been mechanically conveyed to the front wheels. However, with this technology, commands are transmitted rapidly and precisely via electrical cables. The steering feel is recreated by a dedicated actuator (Steering Feedback Unit, or SFU), replicating Mercedes-Benz’s signature handling characteristics.
Markus Schäfer, Chief Technology Officer of Mercedes-Benz Group, called steer-by-wire a key milestone toward future mobility. He added that when combined with autonomous driving technologies, it offers an immersive experience that goes beyond simple steering. In particular, pairing it with SAE Level 3 conditional autonomous driving systems allows drivers to enjoy streaming content with a wider field of vision during travel. It is also expected to be usable as a gaming interface in the future.
Steer-by-wire enables the steering ratio to be freely adjusted based on the driving situation, delivering both sporty performance and luxurious comfort. When fully integrated with the rear-wheel steering system, it allows the rear wheels to turn up to 10 degrees, significantly improving high-speed stability and low-speed maneuverability, especially during parking.
In addition, the system offers a customizable steering feel based on the driver’s personal preferences. This makes it possible to differentiate steering characteristics by model, contributing to each brand’s unique identity.
Technically, the SFU detects driver input and transmits it to the Steering Rack Unit (SRU), which then controls the front wheels. Road and tire contact data are calculated through vehicle-specific modeling. Unlike conventional systems, steer-by-wire generates resistance through electronic simulation instead of physical feedback.
Mercedes-Benz has thoroughly tested this system through more than 1 million kilometers of bench and real-world road testing. The system uses a redundant architecture based on high-precision sensors and high-performance control units. It features dual signal paths and dual power supplies. In worst-case scenarios, vehicle steering can still be maintained through rear-wheel steering and individual wheel braking control via ESP®.
Steer-by-wire is also seen as a breakthrough technology in interior vehicle design. Its flat steering wheel layout provides a wider display view, makes vehicle entry and exit more convenient, and is expected to support more relaxed driver postures as autonomous driving technology advances.
