Even though Infiniti was the first manufacturer to bring steer-by-wire to a production car almost 10 years ago, that system was optional, and you could still opt for a conventional setup with a mechanical link between the helm and the wheels. It’s also offered as an option in the Toyota bZ4X and Lexus RZ450e.

The first true steer-by-wire production vehicle is the Tesla Cybertruck, and driving one takes a bit of getting used to since you have to apply a lot less lock than in a traditional setup, and it also has a variable ratio. This means it’s not very sensitive off-center, but the more you turn the wheel, the lock you apply increases progressively. This ratio also varies depending on the driving speed.

One of the most unusual characteristics of the Cybertruck with its steer-by-wire system is that you can turn the steering wheel when the vehicle is powered off, and none of the wheels will turn. Do the same after powering on the Cybertruck, and you will see both its front- and rear-wheel steering racks working.

Steer-by-wire is definitely still a novelty in cars, although several manufacturers have announced plans to introduce it in production cars in the next few years—Mercedes is rumored to give its next S-Class steer-by-wire. If you’ve ever wondered how a system like this works, this video by Sandy Munro of Munro Live—the latest part of his Tesla Cybertruck teardown series—should shed some light. Sandy and his team first demonstrated how it works, then they extracted the front and rear subframes from the truck to get a better look at how they work.

They also show the steering column, which looks very different from any steering column you may have seen before. It stops where you would expect it to continue with a shaft that links to the steering rack, and it just has electronics, servos and wires that enable it to have a variable ratio. The steering rack (which interestingly appears to be supplied by ZF) has two motors for redundancy, so if one malfunctions, the backup motor can take over and keep the steering system alive.

The Tesla Cybertruck, known for its futuristic design and cutting-edge technology, continues to attract attention as a team of engineers conducts a thorough teardown of the vehicle to uncover its hidden features. In a recent report, the focus has shifted to the Cybertruck’s steer-by-wire system, shedding light on its innovative and advanced mechanism.

Steer-by-wire is a relatively new technology in the automotive industry that replaces traditional mechanical steering systems with electronic controls. In the case of the Cybertruck, this system allows for a more precise and responsive steering experience, enhancing the overall driving performance of the vehicle. By eliminating the need for a physical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels, steer-by-wire offers a smoother and more efficient way of maneuvering on the road.

The teardown team has discovered that the Cybertruck’s steer-by-wire system is powered by a combination of sensors, actuators, and electronic control units, all working seamlessly together to deliver a seamless driving experience. Through a series of tests and simulations, engineers have been able to delve deeper into the workings of this system, uncovering its intricacies and potential for further advancements in the automotive industry.

One of the key benefits of the Cybertruck’s steer-by-wire system is its potential for autonomous driving capabilities. By integrating this technology with other driver-assist features, Tesla is paving the way for a future where vehicles can navigate the roads with minimal human intervention. This level of automation not only enhances safety but also opens up new possibilities for transportation efficiency and sustainability.

As the teardown of the Tesla Cybertruck continues, it is evident that the vehicle represents the forefront of automotive innovation. With its steer-by-wire system serving as a testament to its advanced engineering capabilities, the Cybertruck is not just a truck but a statement of Tesla’s commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining the future of mobility.

In conclusion, the Tesla Cybertruck’s steer-by-wire system exemplifies the brand’s dedication to technological excellence and continuous improvement. As the automotive industry evolves, it is clear that Tesla is leading the charge towards a future where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand. The Cybertruck teardown serves as a testament to this vision, showcasing the limitless potential of electric vehicles and their ability to revolutionize the way we drive.