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 Automotive systems supplier, TRW Automotive has bagged the order to supply Daimler AG with a newly enhanced Motor Pump Unit as part of the Electrically Powered Hydraulic Steering system (EPHS) on selected new Mercedes-Benz models. The MPU delivers enhanced performance and environmental attributes when compared with conventional hydraulic solutions. According to Peter Lake, executive vice president, sales and business development for TRW Automotive, the supply of EPHS technology includes a number of Mercedes-Benz models including the recent launches. Adds Lake: “We are satisfied to be in a position to support Mercedes with its focus on delivering improved fuel efficiency”.
On the technology front, the hydraulic assist, with the TRW motor pump unit, is determined by the pump speed and controlled by a patented, brushless motor which provides assist only when it is needed. The ones employed on Mercedes Benz model uses the newest TRW high power motor pump assembly providing a hydraulic output power of up to 1000 watts. Compared with traditional hydraulic power steering, the system also offers fuel savings of up to 0.29-litre per 100 km and a reduction of carbon dioxide emissions of approximately 6gram per km.
The motor pump unit provides flexible tuning capability allowing the system to adapt to different driving conditions, providing a comfortable setting for parking and city driving, while delivering a safe and robust feel at higher speeds. There is also the option for EPHS to vary assist levels depending on the vehicle loading information provided by other vehicle subsystems.
"TRW's EPHS technology is a proven, off-the-shelf solution which can be used for most HEV steering load requirements. With flexible packaging and mounting options, the technology offers much of the functionality, fuel efficiency and emissions reductions of a full electric system. EPHS is ideal for HEVs as a technology that can be used across both the conventional and hybrid powertrain platforms, reducing application engineering costs," continued Lake.
Concludes Dieter Fehlings, engineering director for TRW steering systems, "TRW is well positioned to support vehicle manufacturers in their quest for improved fuel efficiency. We have a proven technology that can be adapted easily for conventional and hybrid applications. This makes it easy for our customers to fit a system that further improves fuel economy, beyond the benefit of the powertrain itself”. The technology can also be applied to existing Hydraulic Power Steering systems in order to meet short term CO2 requirements. In this case, the mechanical pump is substituted by TRW's EPHS motor pump unit technology. For TRW, it is about maintaining the quality of the steering feel, offering a range of functions and delivering environmental benefits.
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