The third series launch of the latest generation of steering sensors this year is a technological success. One of the lead developers responsible explains why this is so important and what it can be attributed to in a video.

FORVIA HELLA recently went into series production for another well-known Chinese automotive manufacturer with the latest generation of steering sensors, a key technology for fully electric steer-by-wire systems. At the beginning of the year, the company's first two series projects for steer-by-wire steering sensors were successfully launched by premium manufacturers in Germany and China.

Behind FORVIA HELLA's success in the field of steering sensors for by-wire applications is a strong international team. Alexej Greilich, Head of Development for Position and Steering Sensors at FORVIA HELLA, explains why this success is so important and what it can be attributed to in a video.

In steer-by-wire systems, steering commands are transmitted purely electrically, without the use of mechanical or hydraulic connections between the steering wheel and the front axle. In such a steering system, FORVIA HELLA’s steering sensors precisely and reliably detect the torque and angle of the steering wheel and transmit this information as a purely electrical signal. As previously required hardware components, such as the steering column, are no longer needed, steer-by-wire systems allow for steering settings to be adapted to specific situations or customer preferences. In addition, flexible design concepts for the engine compartment and vehicle interior can be realized, enabling innovative cockpit designs, cost advantages through modularization and reduction of variants, as well as increased crash safety.

FORVIA HELLA has been active in the steering sensor market since 2007 and is building on an already strong market position. The technological focus of the now fifth product generation, which for the first time implements steer-by-wire functionalities, is especially on the redundant and at the same time cost-efficient architecture of the sensor to meet the highest safety requirements.

“With the recent series launches, we are consistently advancing the development of fully electric steering systems and addressing a key topic for the future,” says Jörg Weisgerber, Managing Director Electronics at FORVIA HELLA. “The positive feedback from our customers in Germany and in the important growth market of China underscores our strong capabilities to manufacture technologically sophisticated products in high volumes and at optimized costs—without compromising on quality and reliability.”