Volvo Trucks North America, during a press tour at its Dublin, Va., truck manufacturing plant Thursday, introduced Volvo Dynamic Steering (VDS) – an electrically assisted hydraulic steering system designed to lessen steering input, helping reduce driver fatigue and increase road safety.
Volvo’s VDS, which debuted in Europe for the 2014 model year, will be available as an option in the Volvo VNL and VNR models in early 2020.
According to a survey of 250 drivers conducted by Volvo, 82% of respondents reported being in pain on the road, with 63% reporting they regularly visit a doctor in order to cope.
VTNA Product Marketing Manager Chris Stadler said VDS compensates up to 9 feet of torque in the steering column – the equivalent of having an extra hand on the wheel – while also eliminating vibration and offering directional stability.
The active steering system features an electric motor mounted on top of the hydraulic steering gear. Input from multiple vehicle sensors – at over 2,000 times per second – determines the appropriate steering response, “reacting before the driver can react,” Stadler said.
The self-learning system monitors the driver’s actions, environmental factors and road conditions, providing additional torque when needed and supporting driver reaction with greater control and less abrupt maneuvering.
At low speeds, the system requires 85% less effort from the driver to turn the wheel. Steering “tightens” at higher speeds, providing more directional stability.
