Intelligent Steering System to Improve Fuel Efficiency in Heavy Duty Vehicles

In commercial vehicles, conventional engine-driven hydraulic steering systems result in continuous energy consumption, contributing to parasitic losses and reduced overall powertrain efficiency. This study introduces an Electric Powered Hydraulic Steering (EPHS) system that decouples steering actuation from the engine and operates only on demand, thereby optimizing energy usage. Field trials conducted under loaded conditions demonstrated a 3–6% improvement in fuel economy, confirming the system’s effectiveness in real-world applications. A MATLAB-based simulation model was developed to replicate dynamic steering loads and vehicle operating conditions, with results closely aligning with field data, thereby validating the model’s predictive accuracy. The reduction in fuel consumption directly translates to lower CO₂ emissions, supporting regulatory compliance and sustainability goals, particularly in the context of tightening emission norms for commercial fleets. These findings position EPHS as a cost-effective and scalable solution for improving vehicle efficiency and environmental performance. Furthermore, the study highlights the future potential of transitioning to fully electric power steering systems (Full EPS), which not only promise additional efficiency gains but also enable seamless integration with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), laying the foundation for enhanced safety, automation, and intelligent vehicle control in next-generation commercial vehicles.