Adaptive Steering Turns New Ford Models

Ford Motor Co. is launching a new variable-ratio steering system on several 2016 vehicles this autumn, starting with certain models of the Ford Edge crossover vehicle.

The technology, which was developed with Germany's TKAG, also will be available on Ford's S-Max and Galaxy crossover vehicles in Europe.

The system is actuated by a small electric motor inside the steering wheel (behind the airbag) that drives a gear connected to the steering shaft. It then varies the turning ratio between the steering wheel and front wheels based on vehicle speed.

In essence, the technology adds to or subtracts from a driver's steering inputs. At low speeds, the motor spins the shaft at a faster rate then the steering wheel is turned to help minimize driver effort. At highway speeds, the system eases steering response, letting the vehicle react more smoothly to steering input.

The carmaker says other Ford and Lincoln models will get the technology in coming years.