REE Automotive replaces mechanical and hydraulic linkages with electronic controls.

Steer-by-wire explained: how the new technology enhances driver experience

April 24, 2025

Manufacturers of the emerging technology, which replaces traditional mechanical and hydraulic linkages with electronic controls, say the solution results in a safer and more reliable driving experience.

Gregg Wartgow

An emerging technology for commercial vehicles in the U.S. is steer-by-wire. This advanced steering technology replaces traditional mechanical and hydraulic linkages with electronic controls. Driver inputs are digitally transmitted through sensors and actuators, which then control the steering system.

Steer-by-wire manufacturers say this solution results in a safer and more reliable driving experience, while also facilitating more suitable vehicle maneuverability. Manufacturers of this emerging technology include Bosch Mobility, Nexteer Automotive, ZF Group, and REE Automotive.

REE Automotive in particular has been garnering a lot of attention due to some of its solutions being geared toward fleet-type vehicles. In fact, the company recently hosted a ride-and-drive event for its P7-C electric truck at the NTEA Work Truck Week in March. The company says this truck is the first U.S.-certified, fully by-wire (x-by-wire) vehicle, which includes steer-by-wire.

REEcorner technology consolidates essential vehicle functions into a unit at each wheel.

“We’ve taken steer-by-wire technology to the next level by integrating it into our innovative REEcorner technology,” said Peter Dow, vice president of engineering and UK managing director at REE Automotive. “This system consolidates all essential vehicle functions—steering, braking, suspension, powertrain, and control—into a compact, modular unit located at each wheel. Our REEcenter ECU manages the system.”

In the case of steering, the system electronically adjusts the angle of the wheels based on the driver’s input, all without the need for a physical steering column interaction. Additionally, because each REEcorner is controlled independently, the company says maintenance can be managed more efficiently. Also, the software-driven nature of the platform allows fleets to benefit from predictive maintenance powered by real-time data.

Dow said the P7-C is a Class 5 chassis cab truck that is currently being tested by specific fleets in the U.S. Another x-by-wire truck model, the P7-S, is a stripped chassis that allows fleets to build vehicles for virtually any size, shape, or function. Dow said that model is currently being evaluated by U-Haul. “We also offer our technology as a white-labeled solution for OEMs who wish to integrate it into their own vehicles,” Dow added.

ZF’s Electrically Powered Hydraulic Steering can power a hydraulic steering system without the need for a mostly combustion engine-driven PTO.

ZF is also developing full-electric steering technology for commercial applications. The company says its current EPS (electric power steering) solution is already a major step toward more electronically controlled steering and steer-by-wire. Plans also include sophisticated integration strategies where steering systems will interact seamlessly with other crucial vehicle systems, boosting efficiency and safety.