Nexteer Steer-by-Wire System Enters Series Production with ASIL D Certification

On April 28, Nexteer Automotive confirmed the start of series production for its Steer-by-Wire (SbW) system, marking a significant advancement in steering technology. The system has been deployed on a production passenger vehicle developed by a leading new energy vehicle manufacturer in China. This milestone introduces the world’s first production passenger vehicle equipped with a fully integrated drive-by-wire chassis, eliminating traditional mechanical linkages and enabling digitally controlled vehicle dynamics.

ASIL D Certification and Safety Validation

The steer-by-wire system represents Nexteer’s first entry into large-scale production for this technology. Certified in late 2025, it achieved ASIL D functional safety approval, the highest level under automotive safety standards. The certification was granted by DAkkS, the German accreditation authority, following extensive validation in collaboration with the OEM. This certification confirms the system’s capability to handle critical safety scenarios with maximum reliability and fault tolerance in real-world driving conditions.

Advanced Redundancy and System Architecture

The system architecture incorporates multi-layered redundancy across system, hardware, and software levels to ensure fail-operational capability. It integrates dual electronic controllers, independent power supply units, multiple communication channels, and redundant actuation paths. This design ensures that even in the event of a component failure, steering functionality remains operational without compromising vehicle safety or control, aligning with stringent automotive safety requirements.

Dynamic Steering Performance and Driving Experience

Nexteer’s SbW system introduces an automatically adjustable steering ratio that dynamically adapts based on vehicle speed and driving mode. At low speeds, it enhances maneuverability, while at higher speeds, it improves stability and precision. Additionally, the system utilizes software-defined road-feel simulation, allowing manufacturers to fine-tune steering feedback characteristics. This enables a more intuitive and responsive driving experience while maintaining consistency across different driving conditions.

Integration with ADAS and Autonomous Systems

The system is designed with an open interface architecture, enabling seamless integration with advanced driver assistance systems and autonomous driving platforms. It supports real-time, high-precision control, allowing enhanced interaction between steering and vehicle control systems. This capability is critical for enabling next-generation mobility features, including automated lane control, collision avoidance, and fully autonomous driving functionalities.

Flexible Configuration and Motion-by-Wire Ecosystem

Steer-by-wire eliminates mechanical steering columns, allowing flexible vehicle design and packaging. This flexibility supports diverse vehicle architectures and enables manufacturers to optimize interior space and safety layouts. The system is part of Nexteer’s broader Motion-by-Wire portfolio, which includes rear-wheel steering, brake-by-wire systems, and the MotionIQ software suite. These technologies collectively contribute to a fully electrified and software-defined vehicle control ecosystem.

Global Engineering and Manufacturing Footprint

Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Nexteer operates a global network of manufacturing plants, technical centers, and customer service facilities across North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region. Its expansion into steer-by-wire production strengthens its position in advanced mobility technologies and supports the industry’s transition toward electrification and autonomous driving systems, particularly in markets such as Germany and Asia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a steer-by-wire system and how does it work?
A steer-by-wire system replaces the traditional mechanical connection between the steering wheel and wheels with electronic controls and actuators. It uses sensors to detect driver input and electronically transmits commands to steering actuators. This allows precise control, adjustable steering characteristics, and integration with advanced safety systems. The system improves flexibility in vehicle design, enhances driving comfort, and enables advanced features such as autonomous steering and customizable driving modes.

Why is ASIL D certification important for automotive systems?
ASIL D is the highest safety integrity level defined under ISO 26262 for automotive systems, indicating maximum risk reduction for safety-critical components. Achieving ASIL D certification ensures that the system can handle severe failure scenarios without compromising vehicle control. It requires rigorous validation, redundancy, and fault-tolerant design. For technologies like steer-by-wire, this certification is essential to ensure reliability, especially when replacing traditional mechanical systems with electronic controls.