Types of power steering
Most modern cars offer power steering as a feature. A power steering system can be of three types, as explained below.
1. Hydraulic power steering
Hydraulic power steering was the first type of power steering system introduced in cars. The hydraulic pump supplies pressurised fluid to the steering rack, reducing the strength required to steer the vehicle.
Below are the key factors of how a hydraulic power steering system works.
The hydraulic pump obtains power and direction from an engine-drive part called the serpentine belt.
When the driver applies force to turn the steering wheel, the hydraulic pump sends the high-pressure fluid to the rack from the reservoir.
The fluid is always delivered to the opposite direction of steering. For example, if the driver is turning the car left, the fluid will reach the right-hand piston to reduce the driver’s effort.
2. Electric power steering
Today, most of the car models in the market come with an electric power steering system. It is because of the better efficiency that electric steering offers. This type of power steering uses electrical energy to ease the working of the steering assembly. A bi-directional magnet motor remains permanently attached to the steering gear or the steering column.
Here are the key factors of how an electric power steering system works.
When the driver turns the steering wheel, a sensor detects that movement and turns on the electric motor.
The electric motor gives assistance in the direction where the driver wants to turn the steering wheel.
3. Electro-hydraulic power steering
As the name suggests, an electro-hydraulic power steering system uses the elements of both electric and hydraulic steering systems. The structure matches with a hydraulic system except for the serpentine belt. Instead of the serpentine belt, this system uses an electric motor for steering assistance.
What are the advantages of power steering?
Following are the benefits of power steering in cars.
It doesn’t allow the wheels to transfer resistance to the steering column.
It makes steering easier and less tiring for the driver.
Power steering in cars helps to adjust the steering speed based on road conditions.
Among the three major power steering systems, the electric one is considered the most effective. It is the reason why almost all cars nowadays come with an electric power steering system. Some of the major benefits are mentioned below.
The electric power steering offers enhanced accuracy than a manual or hydraulic steering system.
The electric motor works more efficiently than the pressurised fluid of the hydraulic steering.
An electric steering system comes with several driving modes, allowing the driver to customise the steering input.
It doesn’t require too much energy from the engine, which helps to maintain the engine’s efficiency and life in the long run.
Electric power steering vs hydraulic power steering
If you compare the workings of both kinds of steering systems, the following differences become clearly visible.
Hydraulic power steering is much more complex than an electric power steering system.
A hydraulic power steering system requires more maintenance than an electric system.
The parts used in electric power steering systems require less space and weigh less than hydraulic power steering systems.
An electric power steering system uses sensors to deliver accurate assistance based on the driving conditions. It is not possible with hydraulic power steering.
A hydraulic power steering requires 90% more power from the car’s engine than the electric system.
Also, read: How do electric cars work?
Cars in India with power steering feature
These days, power steering in cars is pretty common. However, most power steering cars contain an electric steering system. While there are many options, some popular car choices with power steering are mentioned below.
Hatchbacks having power steering feature in India
Below are some of the hatchbacks that have the power steering feature in India.
