Nexteer Automotive, the only tier one automotive supplier committed exclusively to wheel-to-wheel advanced steering and driveline systems, will supply its electric power steering (EPS) technology to the all-electric car from CODA Automotive due out in California in late 2010. Capable of traveling 90 to 120 miles on a fully charged battery, the CODA car will include column-mounted electric power steering by Nexteer.
“Nexteer’s EPS system is the quietest on the market, which is an important benefit for vehicles without engine noise,” said Ted Seeger, global chief engineer – electric steering, Nexteer Automotive. “Plus, our high-efficiency EPS technology minimizes battery consumption, allowing for increased range.”
Nexteer is working with CODA on tuning the steering to maximize driver comfort and steering effort. The EPS system enables quicker response and improved handling and steering feel.
Nexteer currently has column, pinion and rack-assisted EPS systems in mass production. Its broad portfolio enables it to provide cost-effective EPS solutions for a full range of vehicle segments, sizes and classes from small cars to large trucks.
“We are planning $400 million in future investments for our global operations, technology and equipment in the coming years, a majority of which is ear-marked for green steering technologies like EPS,” said Mike Richardson, vice president – steering business unit, Nexteer Automotive. “We have a global footprint that will be optimized to support our diverse customer base around the world.”
Since 1999, Nexteer (the former steering division of Delphi) has put more than 12 million EPS units on the road globally, saving nearly 800 million gallons of fuel.
CODA Automotive is a manufacturer and distributor of all-electric cars and transportation battery systems. The company designs, brands, markets and distributes electric vehicles using a manufacturing partnership strategy that allows it to develop electric vehicles rapidly in a flexible manner – avoiding the traditionally capital-intensive nature of the automobile business. The CODA sedan is the company’s first vehicle.
About Nexteer Automotive
Nexteer Automotive is a multi-billion dollar global steering and driveline business solely dedicated to electric and hydraulic steering systems, steering columns and driveline products for original equipment manufacturers. Its 6,200 employees serve more than 60 customers in every major region of the world. The company has 22 manufacturing plants, six engineering centers and 14 customer service centers strategically located in North and South America, Europe and Asia. Nexteer Automotive’s customers include GM, Fiat, Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and PSA Peugeot Citroen, as well as automakers in India, China and South America. www.nexteer.com
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