What is the new technology in steering wheel?

The latest steering wheel tech centers on steer-by-wire, tactile touch controls, and driver-state monitoring integrated into the wheel.

These advances reflect a broader move toward software-defined driving, where digital control, sensing, and intelligent safety features augment or even replace traditional mechanical linkages. The result is more configurable steering, smoother handovers between manual and automated modes, and richer interaction with vehicle systems, all while raising questions about maintenance, cybersecurity, and cost.

Technology landscape

Steer-by-wire and electronic torque

Steer-by-wire (SbW) replaces or augments the mechanical steering column with electronic actuators and sensors that apply torque to the wheel based on computer control. This enables variable steering ratios, faster and more precise lane-centering assistance, and seamless transitions between manual and automated driving. To be considered safe, SbW systems rely on redundant sensors, multiple actuation paths, and thorough fault-detection and recovery mechanisms.

Touch-sensitive controls and displays

Modern steering wheels increasingly embed capacitive touch surfaces and haptic feedback in place of many physical buttons and stalks. Drivers can perform functions like cruise control, media adjustments, and drive-mode changes with palm touches, swipes, and subtle tactile cues, while small displays or LED indicators provide contextual information without requiring drivers to look away from the road.

Driver monitoring and safety integration

Wheel-integrated sensors—such as grip/pressure sensors—work in concert with cabin cameras and software to assess driver engagement. This data supports safer handovers in automated modes, alerts for drowsiness or distraction, and strengthens overall vehicle safety architectures that govern how and when autonomy can be used.

Core technologies currently shaping steering wheels today include the above capabilities and are driving a shift toward more flexible, software-driven control of vehicle dynamics.

Below are the core technologies currently in production or in pilot programs that define the direction of steering wheel design.

• Steer-by-wire (SbW) with electronic actuators, torque control, and redundant safety paths


• Variable steering ratio and electronic assist to optimize feel, efficiency, and automated control


• Capacitive touch surfaces and haptic feedback on the wheel rim for controls


• Integrated displays and contextual lighting on the steering wheel


• Grip/pressure sensors and driver-monitoring integration for safer handover


• Software-defined steering with cybersecurity measures and regular updates

These technologies collectively enable more flexible automation, improved control feel, and safer human-machine interaction, but they also introduce new maintenance, cybersecurity, and cost considerations for automakers.

User experience and safety implications

To translate these technologies into everyday use, the industry assesses benefits, challenges, and user adoption issues.

• Enhanced safety during transitions between manual and automated driving due to precise torque feedback and hands-on-detection


• Greater opportunity to tailor steering feel and response to individual driver preferences


• Potential learning curve as drivers adapt to touch controls and reduced reliance on physical buttons


• Increased cost and complexity, with a need for robust software maintenance and cybersecurity protections


• Regulatory and standardization considerations shaping validation, certification, and road usage rules

While these advances promise a smoother, safer, and more personalized driving experience, they require careful design, ongoing safety validation, and clear user education to ensure broad adoption and trust.

What this means for drivers and the industry

As steering becomes more software-driven, automakers are prioritizing reliability, safety, and intuitive human-machine interfaces. The trend supports higher levels of automation while aiming to preserve driver trust and control, with regulatory bodies and standards organizations guiding validation, cybersecurity, and interoperability across vehicles and brands.

Summary

New steering wheel technology blends steer-by-wire systems, tactile touch controls, and driver-monitoring sensors to create more flexible, safer, and customizable driving experiences. While the advances enable smoother automation and richer user interactions, they also raise considerations about cost, maintenance, cybersecurity, and the need for clear standards to ensure safe and consistent adoption across vehicles.

Which is better, hydraulic or electric power steering?

Electric power steering (EPS) is generally considered better due to its higher fuel efficiency, reduced maintenance, and ability to integrate with advanced driver-assistance systems. However, hydraulic power steering (HPS) is often favored for its more direct and robust steering feel, which some drivers prefer, and its reliability in high-performance applications.
 
This video explains the differences between hydraulic and electric power steering systems: 47sOBD InsightsYouTube · May 28, 2024
Electric power steering (EPS)
Advantages:

• Improved fuel efficiency: The electric motor only draws power when needed, unlike a hydraulic pump that runs continuously. This can lead to a 3-4% improvement in fuel economy. 
• Lower maintenance: EPS eliminates the need for hydraulic fluid, reducing potential leaks and maintenance checks. 
• Space and weight savings: By removing the hydraulic pump, reservoir, and hoses, EPS systems are lighter and take up less space, which helps manufacturers save weight and space. 
• Integration with technology: The electrical system makes it easier to incorporate features like variable assist, lane-keeping assist, and automatic parking. 
• Easier low-speed steering: Many drivers find EPS lighter and easier to use, especially at low speeds for parking. 

Disadvantages:

• Reduced driver feedback: Some systems may have a less direct feel and provide less road feedback than hydraulic systems. 
• Potential for electronic issues: Like any electronic system, EPS can be subject to issues like sensor malfunctions or wiring failures. 

Hydraulic power steering (HPS)
Advantages: 

• Robust driver feedback: HPS provides a more direct and connected feel to the road, which is often preferred by enthusiasts and performance drivers.
• High reliability: The system is robust and has a long track record of reliability.
• Cost-effective: In some cases, HPS can be a less expensive initial cost.

Disadvantages:

• Lower fuel efficiency: The always-on hydraulic pump places a constant load on the engine, decreasing fuel economy. 
• Higher maintenance: Hydraulic systems require regular checks of fluid levels and can be prone to leaks. 
• Heavier and more complex: The system adds weight and complexity to the vehicle due to the pump, fluid, and hoses. 

Which is better for you?

• Choose electric power steering if your priority is fuel efficiency, lower maintenance, and advanced technology integration, which is the case for most modern passenger vehicles. 
• Choose hydraulic power steering if you prioritize a more traditional, connected steering feel and a system known for its robust performance, particularly in heavy-duty or performance-focused applications. 

What is a haptic steering wheel system?

A haptic steering wheel system uses vibrations in the steering wheel to provide tactile alerts to the driver, enhancing safety and navigation by giving feedback through touch. These systems are integrated with various driver-assistance technologies to warn drivers about lane departures, potential collisions, or cross-traffic, and can also provide directional cues for navigation.
 
This video demonstrates how to manage haptic feedback settings in a Genesis steering wheel: 35sGenesis KelownaYouTube · Feb 19, 2025
How it works

• Vibrating motors: The system uses one or more electric motors, often eccentric rotating mass (ERM) motors, built into the steering wheel. 
• Computer control: A control module receives signals from various sensors and vehicle systems, such as the lane-keeping assist or navigation system. 
• Tactile alerts: When a hazard or event is detected, the control module sends a signal to the motors to activate vibrations, which the driver feels through the steering wheel. 

Common applications

• Lane departure warning/lane keep assist: The wheel vibrates when the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without a turn signal engaged. 
• Navigation guidance: The steering wheel can pulse in the direction of an upcoming turn to provide a non-visual cue. 
• Collision and cross-traffic alerts: The system can vibrate to warn of potential collisions or when a vehicle is approaching from the side, such as when reversing out of a parking spot. 
• Driver assistance systems: Haptic feedback is used as a warning method for many other driver assistance functions and can often be customized or disabled in the vehicle's settings. 

Benefits

• Keeps eyes on the road: Provides information through touch instead of requiring the driver to look at a screen or listen to an audio cue. 
• Reduces distraction: Offers a less intrusive way to receive warnings compared to an audible alarm. 
• Enhances safety: Helps the driver react more quickly to potential hazards. 
• Improves navigation: Reduces the need to look at a GPS screen by providing directional pulses. 

What is the new technology in the steering system?

New steering technology providing intuitive driving
Direct Adaptive Steering transmits the driver's steering inputs, moving the tires through translating the driver's steering into electronic signals, and independently controlling the angle of the tires, and the steering force.

What are the new hand positions on a steering wheel?

The new recommended hand positions for steering wheels are 9 and 3 or 8 and 4, replacing the old 10 and 2 position to increase safety during airbag deployment. Both 9 and 3 and 8 and 4 allow for more control, reduce the risk of injury from the airbag, and provide more relaxation for your arms on long drives. When turning, use a push-pull method instead of hand-over-hand to keep your hands on the sides of the wheel.
 
This video demonstrates the proper hand positions and techniques for steering: 57sPartners for Safe Teen Driving (PFSTD)YouTube · Jun 25, 2022
New recommended hand positions

• 9 and 3 o'clock: This is the most widely recommended position. It allows your arms to remain in a position that reduces the risk of the airbag causing injury upon deployment, while still providing excellent control and stability. 
• 8 and 4 o'clock: This is another popular and safe alternative, often cited as the least fatiguing position. It also keeps your hands out of the path of a deploying airbag. 

Why these positions are better

• Airbag safety: The primary reason for the change is the force of modern airbags, which can cause injury if hands are in the 10 and 2 position when they deploy. 
• Improved control: These positions allow for a more stable and controlled steering response, especially in emergencies. 
• Reduced fatigue: Positions like 8 and 4 are more relaxed for long-distance driving, decreasing stress on the neck, shoulders, and back. 

Steering techniques

• Push-pull steering: When turning, push the wheel up with one hand and pull it down with the other. As the wheel turns, slide your hands back to a comfortable position on the sides, such as 8 and 4 or 9 and 3, to avoid crossing them. 
• Avoid crossing arms: The push-pull method keeps your arms from crossing over the steering wheel, which is crucial to prevent injury if an airbag deploys. 
• Avoid hand-over-hand: This old technique can cause your arms to slam into your face during an airbag deployment. 

Additional safety tips

• Keep your thumbs up along the face of the steering wheel, not wrapped around the rim. 
• Grip the wheel firmly but not with a "death grip". 
• Keep your back straight and arms slightly bent.