Flagship Nio ET9 EV to get latest ZF steer-by-wire technology
ZF is fitting Nio’s flagship EV, the Nio ET9 SUV, with its latest generation steer-by-wire system.
The German technology technology group is supplying the Chinese carmaker with its steering wheel actuator for road feel, plus the steering gear actuator and associated software.
The ET9 has no mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the front wheels. Since ZF created its Chassis Solutions Division at the beginning of 2024, the brand now has a comprehensive portfolio of purely electronically-controlled steering, braking, and controlled damping systems. In combination with ZF’s own cubiX software, these technologies form the basis for a software-defined vehicle. A software-defined vehicle is any vehicle that manages its operations, adds functionality, and/or enables new features via software.
ZF’s steer-by-wire steering system has a mechatronic actuator between the wheels as the only source of transmitting steering inputs. There is no physical connection between the steering wheel and steering gear. Steering commands are issued by a steering wheel actuator in the cabin, which has a corresponding angle of rotation sensor. An electric drive – the ‘torque feedback unit’ – reproduces the natural steering feel and feedback from the road. The ZF system adjusts the steering ratio individually, so the ratio of the steering wheel-to-wheel angle is adapted for different driving speeds or situations.
“We are supplying customers with the steering system of the future,” said ZF board member and Chassis Solutions Division head, Dr. Peter Holdmann. “Thanks to our production-ready steer-by-wire system, we are launching the era of the software-defined vehicle. With an entire portfolio of innovative by-wire technologies, we are a sought-after supplier and a key driver of future-oriented chassis technologies.
Danilo Teobaldi, NIO’s principal chief engineer added: “At Nio, we are committed to delivering groundbreaking innovations that redefine the driving experience. Steer-by-wire technology is a key enabler of software-defined vehicles, offering enhanced driving comfort, uncompromised dynamics, and future-proof technology.
“Our collaboration with ZF is a testament to our ambition to set new industry benchmarks by introducing our smart EVs to a global market. Since the partnership we signed with ZF in 2022 up to the manufacture of this technology, we have demonstrated our ability to execute and deliver cutting-edge solutions.
Alongside Nio, ZF has confirmed that another unnamed global car manufacturer has placed an order for five million of its brake-by-wire systems. Customer orders for the technology have also been placed in Europe.
Nio has yet to announce the European availability and pricing of its flagship ET9 SUV. The car is, however, expected to rival the likes of the BMW i7 and the Mercedes EQS SUV. When the ET9 launched in China at the end of 2024, it started with a pricetag of 788,000 yuan (around £71,000) and topped out at 818,000 yuan (approximately £90,000). Upon launch, the First Edition trim was limited to just 999 units and sold out within 24 hours.
