Mercedes has unveiled a "steering wheel-not steering wheel" for cars with a steer-by-wire system

In 2026, Mercedes-Benz will be the first German carmaker to offer a production model with steer-by-wire technology.

Here's What We Know

Steer-by-wire technology eliminates the mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the front wheels. Instead, the driver's commands are transmitted literally by wire.

How steer-by-wire works: depending on the speed and traffic situation, an actuator on the steering wheel (Steering Feedback Unit, SFU) sends a signal to the steering rack (Steering Rack Unit, SRU), which turns the wheels. Given that there is no mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels, the reverse force is calculated individually for each model for different driving conditions.

Mercedes-Benz claims that the new driving feel provides "an unrivalled user experience with a range of benefits in everyday use". Handling is improved and manoeuvring and parking become easier. The system reduces force on the steering wheel and there is no longer a need to over steer when parking.

In addition, steer-by-wire allows more freedom in interior design. The steering wheel can be flatter, which creates a feeling of spaciousness and improves the view of the dashboard. It also makes it easier to get in and out: the bevelled lower part of the steering wheel provides more space. In future, in conjunction with conditional and highly automated driving systems, the driver will be able to adopt a more relaxed driving position.

Source: Mercedes-Benz