Mercedes EQS Gets Revolutionary Steer-by-Wire Tech for 2026

Daily Car

07/04/2026

Mercedes-Benz is set to revolutionize the driving experience with the introduction of steer-by-wire technology in the updated 2026 EQS limousine. This advanced system, which eliminates the traditional mechanical linkage between the steering wheel and the road wheels, promises enhanced maneuverability and a transformed interaction between driver and vehicle. Autocar has had an exclusive first drive of this groundbreaking technology.

Key Takeaways

The 2026 Mercedes EQS will feature optional steer-by-wire technology.
This system significantly improves low-speed maneuverability.
It allows for a reduced steering wheel lock-to-lock rotation and the use of a yoke-style steering wheel.
Steer-by-wire enhances refinement by eliminating vibrations and offers robust safety redundancies.

A New Era of Steering

Mercedes joins pioneers like Tesla and Toyota in adopting steer-by-wire technology, aiming to "elevate the driving experience to a new level." The primary benefit highlighted is a dramatic improvement in low-speed maneuverability. With the steering wheel's lock-to-lock rotation reduced from several turns to just 170 degrees, drivers no longer need to adjust their grip or shuffle the wheel. This enables the use of an unconventional yoke-style steering wheel, allowing for a constant grip and a clearer view of the road ahead.

Enhanced Refinement and Safety

By removing the physical connection, Mercedes has also managed to "eliminate" steering wheel vibrations and jolts, contributing to a more refined ride. The system is tuned to maintain an "intuitive steering feel" while offering a high degree of redundancy. Dual signal paths ensure continuous power, and in the unlikely event of a complete system failure, the car can still be safely brought to a halt using rear-steering and individual front wheel braking via the ESP system.

Driving the Future

Autocar sampled the steer-by-wire technology in a prototype EQS, a vehicle that stands to benefit immensely from the innovation due to its substantial size (5.2 meters long and 1.9 meters wide). Navigating tight spaces and sharp bends in the current EQS can feel cumbersome, akin to piloting a large vessel. However, the steer-by-wire system, coupled with a rear axle capable of steering up to 10 degrees, transforms the large sedan into a vehicle that feels almost as agile as a supermini.

While the quicker, more responsive steering initially feels twitchy, drivers can adapt by adopting a more relaxed driving style, as advised by Mercedes engineers. This allows for better exploitation of the enhanced agility. The technology is slated to debut as an option on the EQS and will soon be available on the electric GLC, with potential applications for Mercedes' combustion engine vehicles also being explored due to packaging advantages and simplified manufacturing for left- and right-hand drive models.

2026-03-30

Mercedes-Benz to Unveil Updated GLE and GLS SUV Families

Get the latest details on the facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLE, GLE Coupe, and GLS. Learn about the updated styling, new Hyperscreen interior, and revised engines.