Ford develops new adaptive steering technology

Ford Motor Company has developed a new generation of steering technology for its vehicles which will help drivers manoeuvre better at low speeds and in tight spaces, while at higher speeds the vehicles will be more agile. In the adaptive steering the steering ratio continually changes with speed, optimising the steering response in all conditions, unlike traditional steering in which it is fixed. At low speeds the steering wheel requires a lesser turning angle, such as when getting into a parking space, while at high speeds the system optimises the steering response, making the vehicle react more smoothly and precisely to steering wheel turning. According to Ford the adaptive steering will be available in select vehicles beginning next year.