What cars have a steer-by-wire system?
Only a small number of production cars currently use steer-by-wire. The best-known example is Infiniti’s Direct Adaptive Steering, which has been offered on the Q50 sedan and Q60 coupe since around 2014. Most mainstream models still rely on conventional steering mechanisms.
Steer-by-wire replaces the traditional mechanical linkage between the steering wheel and the wheels with electronic signals and actuators. The driver still turns the wheel, but the input is interpreted by a computer and translated into wheel angle, with redundancy and safety systems designed to prevent loss of control. This approach can enable more precise control and packaging flexibility, but it also raises questions about reliability and regulatory approval.
Production models with steer-by-wire
The following production models are known to use steer-by-wire technology in at least some markets and model years.
- Infiniti Q50 (2014–present) with Direct Adaptive Steering
- Infiniti Q60 (2014–present) with Direct Adaptive Steering
These models represent the most visible and widely cited examples of steer-by-wire in production cars. Availability can vary by market, trim, and model year, and some regions may limit software updates or feature access depending on local regulations and dealer configurations.
Safety, regulation, and future outlook
Steer-by-wire systems rely on electronic control units, sensors, and actuators, and they typically include multiple layers of redundancy to maintain control in the event of a fault. Regulators scrutinize these systems for fail-safety, ride reliability, and user experience, and some implementations may require backup mechanical features or emergency steering capabilities in certain circumstances. As autonomous driving and electric vehicles become more prevalent, automakers and regulators are examining steer-by-wire as part of broader vehicle-control architectures, with adoption likely to grow if safety and cost targets are met.
Summary
In short, Infiniti’s Direct Adaptive Steering on the Q50 and Q60 stands as the most prominent and recognized production example of steer-by-wire to date. While other brands have explored the technology through concept cars and advanced research, widespread production adoption remains limited as of 2024–2025. The trend toward greater electronic control, driver assist, and autonomous capabilities suggests more steer-by-wire developments may appear in the coming years.
