ZF and JTEKT are leading the development of steer-by-wire systems, while Germany's Bosch and Astemo are following. The development race centers on how to build systems that ensure redundancy while achieving lower costs.
Steer-by-wire is a technology that eliminates the mechanical shaft between the steering wheel and the tires, and is expected to integrate with end-to-end autonomous driving. ZF and JTEKT are leading development in this field and seeking to take the lead in the competition.
Germany's Bosch and Astemo are also participating in the competition, with companies leading the field and those following behind. The focus is on how to ensure redundancy and reduce costs, and work is progressing on these as areas of technical differentiation.
This series positions the adoption of steer-by-wire as likely to affect the development of autonomous-driving technology and vehicle design, and interest is building in future developments.