What Lexus has Steer-by-Wire?
Lexus, the luxury automotive brand owned by Toyota, has introduced a groundbreaking new feature in its latest models: Steer-by-Wire technology. This innovative system replaces the traditional mechanical steering linkage with an electronic control system, offering drivers a more responsive and precise driving experience.
What is Steer-by-Wire?
Steer-by-Wire, also known as Fly-by-Wire, is an advanced steering system that uses electronic signals instead of a physical connection between the steering wheel and the vehicle's wheels. This technology eliminates the need for a traditional steering column, allowing for a more compact and flexible design. The steering wheel is connected to sensors that translate the driver's input into electronic signals, which are then processed by a computer and sent to actuators that control the movement of the wheels.
Benefits of Steer-by-Wire Technology
Lexus' implementation of Steer-by-Wire technology offers several key benefits to drivers:
- Improved Responsiveness: The electronic control system can react more quickly to the driver's inputs, providing a more immediate and precise steering response. This enhances the overall driving experience, particularly in dynamic driving situations.
- Customizable Steering Feel: Lexus' Steer-by-Wire system allows for the customization of the steering feel, enabling drivers to choose from different steering modes that cater to their personal preferences or driving conditions.
- Increased Packaging Flexibility: The absence of a traditional steering column frees up space within the vehicle, allowing for more innovative interior designs and improved ergonomics.
- Enhanced Safety: Steer-by-Wire systems can incorporate advanced safety features, such as automatic lane-keeping assistance and collision avoidance systems, which can help prevent accidents and improve overall driving safety.
Lexus' introduction of Steer-by-Wire technology in its latest models represents a significant step forward in the evolution of automotive steering systems. This innovative feature not only enhances the driving experience but also paves the way for further advancements in vehicle technology and design.
Which cars have steer-by-wire technology?
Cars with steer-by-wire systems include the Tesla Cybertruck, Lexus RZ 450e, Toyota bZ4X, GMC Hummer EV, and Chevrolet Silverado EV. Previous models like the Infiniti Q50 and Q60 also featured this technology, which replaces the mechanical linkage between the steering wheel and wheels with an electronic one.
This video explains how steer-by-wire technology works in the Tesla Cybertruck: 49sEngineering ExplainedYouTube · May 10, 2024
Current and upcoming models
- Tesla Cybertruck: The first production vehicle in North America to use a steer-by-wire system without a mechanical backup.
- Lexus RZ 450e: Comes with the optional "One Motion Grip" steer-by-wire system and yoke steering wheel.
- Toyota bZ4X: Features a steer-by-wire system, sometimes with a yoke-style wheel.
- GMC Hummer EV: Uses a steer-by-wire system for its rear wheels to improve maneuverability.
- Chevrolet Silverado EV: Includes steer-by-wire technology.
- Rolls-Royce Spectre: Also features steer-by-wire.
- Lotus Eletre: A luxury electric SUV that uses steer-by-wire.
- Honda electric sedan: An upcoming model planned for release in 2026 with this technology.
- Rivian: Is developing steer-by-wire technology, possibly initially for rear-wheel steering.
Previous models
- Infiniti Q50: One of the first production cars to use steer-by-wire, introduced in 2013.
- Infiniti Q60 and QX50/QX55: Also featured the Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) system.
What Lexus is steer-by-wire?
The new Lexus RZ
It is the first model to offer Lexus' new steer-by-wire system. This provides easy, smooth and intuitive control with approximately 200 degrees of turn from neutral to left or right lock.
Does Lexus have electric steering?
Instead it is all electric signals. And smart software working together to create a new kind of driving. Experience. So what does this mean for drivers.
Is Lexus RZ steer-by-wire?
The Lexus RZ features a steer-by-wire system that replaces the traditional mechanical link between the steering wheel and the wheels with an electronic connection, allowing the system to instantly change the steering ratio based on speed. This enables easier, more responsive steering, such as a smaller turning radius at low speeds without hand-over-hand turning, while providing more stable and precise steering at higher speeds. It also allows for a more natural and intuitive driving experience, with less hand movement required for certain maneuvers.
This video explains how the steer-by-wire system works and its benefits: 57sDPCcarsYouTube · Mar 31, 2025
How it works
- No mechanical link: The steering wheel is not physically connected to the tires, unlike a traditional car.
- Electronic signals: The steering wheel angle is measured by sensors, and an electrical signal is sent to a control actuator that turns the wheels.
- Variable ratio: The system can change the ratio of steering wheel movement to wheel movement on the fly.
- Optimized performance:
- At low speeds, the system can provide a quick, 200-degree lock-to-lock turn for tight maneuvers without needing to move your hands.
- At higher speeds, it provides stable and predictable steering.
- Driver feedback: The system is designed to provide feedback to the driver, replicating the feel of traditional steering even though it's electronic.
- Benefits:
- Improved maneuverability at low speeds.
- Enhanced stability and control at high speeds.
- Potential for reduced weight and complexity, although other systems are added.
- Increased visibility and knee room due to the absence of a traditional steering column.
- Considerations:
- The new system, especially with the yoke-style steering wheel, may require an adjustment period for some drivers.
- Not all Lexus RZ models are equipped with the steer-by-wire system; it is an advanced technology offered on specific trims, such as the F SPORT and certain dual-motor versions.
- Some regions may have different availability based on market testing and customer preference.
