Mercedes EQS: Steering by wire available for order at 2,975 euros
Mercedes now offers a steer-by-wire steering system for the EQS sedan, eliminating any mechanical connection to the wheels. This option costs 2,975 euros and includes a rear-wheel steering system with 10 degrees of adjustment as well as a new, flatter steering wheel.
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Mercedes-Benz is now offering a steer-by-wire steering system for the updated EQS sedan. According to the company, this makes Mercedes the first German manufacturer to install this technology in a production car. With steer-by-wire, there is no longer any mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the front wheels: the driver’s steering movements are detected by sensors and transmitted electronically to the steering actuators. This option is available for ordering in all markets where the EQS is sold.
The principle is not entirely new in this industry. Tesla already uses steer-by-wire steering on the Cybertruck, and other manufacturers are also working on similar systems. Nevertheless, Mercedes’ move is notable for the European market and the luxury sedan segment.
Price and Scope of the Optional Package
In Germany, the steer-by-wire steering system costs 2,500 euros net or 2,975 euros including VAT. The package includes rear-wheel steering with a maximum steering angle of 10 degrees. These two systems work together to reduce turning radius and improve driving stability at higher speeds.
The package also includes a new, flatter-designed steering wheel with an improved airbag structure. Mercedes describes it as a design inspired by Formula 1. The steering wheel is available in black, and depending on the chosen interior trim, it is also available in beige.
Smaller steering wheel angles and reduced grip
The biggest difference in everyday use is likely to be seen when maneuvering and parking. Only 170 degrees are needed from one extreme position to the other on the steering wheel, which is about half a turn. This should eliminate the need to fully grip the steering wheel. At low speeds, the variable gear ratio significantly reduces the required steering input, and it is also said to further decrease the effort needed.
According to Mercedes, the steering feel is supposed to remain precise despite the lack of a mechanical connection. Another benefit is that vibrations caused by road irregularities, which were previously transmitted to the steering wheel via the steering column, can now be suppressed. Whether drivers will perceive this as an improvement in comfort or a loss of feedback from the road will only become clear through practical testing.
The more compact steering wheel is also intended to create more space inside the cabin. It reduces obstruction of the driver’s view of the display, and getting in and out of the vehicle is said to be easier.
Redundancy as a safety concept
Since there is no mechanical fallback mechanism, fail-safety plays a crucial role. Mercedes relies on a redundant system architecture with independent signal paths, precise sensors, and multiple control units to ensure steering capability is maintained at all times.
In the event of a complete system failure, which the manufacturer considers highly unlikely, an additional safety measure is in place: the vehicle should be able to stay in its lane using rear-wheel steering and targeted braking interventions on individual wheels via ESP.
Software
The vehicle is controlled by the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), which centrally manages all vehicle functions. The system utilizes AI capabilities and is connected to the manufacturer’s cloud. Over-the-Air updates are intended to provide the EQS with new functions over several years. The introduction of steer-by-wire fits into this concept, as the steering characteristics in a purely electric system can fundamentally be adjusted via software.
Mercedes is using the brand’s 140th anniversary to position the EQS as a technological showcase. The additional cost of nearly 3,000 euros seems reasonable for a luxury sedan, especially since rear-wheel steering is already included.
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