Mercedes-Benz Joins Yoke Trend With Steer-By-Wire In The Upcoming EQS Facelift

Mercedes-Benz will be the first German automaker to introduce a steer-by-wire system in the much upgraded Mercedes EQS next year, joining a growing number of automakers adopting this technology. Steering-by-wire systems replace the mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the front wheels with an electrical connection. This allows for quicker reactions and greater feedback.

For example, the steering can be adjusted to become quicker at slower speeds, making actions like parking easier.

Since full lock can now be achieved with fewer turns of the steering wheel, Mercedes has replaced the traditional wheel with a flat-bottomed yoke, similar to the one found in the Lexus RZ, one of the first cars sold in Europe with a steer-by-wire system.

But that's only part of the package. The German automaker claims that the new design will not only enhance knee room and visibility of internal displays but also facilitate easier entry and exit for passengers.

Additionally, the firm stated that the design establishes a more intuitive connection to the rear-wheel steering setup present in their high-end vehicles, like the S-Class and EQS sedans.

The elimination of the physical connection between the steering wheel and the front wheels by the steer-by-wire system virtually removes the feedback from rough road surfaces, it says.

For added safety and peace of mind, the setup includes a second set of sensors and wires, allowing drivers to steer the car even if the main steer-by-wire system fails.




“Steer-by-wire is another big step towards the mobility of tomorrow, and we’re proud that we will be launching such a system in 2026,” said Mercedes tech boss Markus Schäfer.