Electromechanical steering increases agility and comfort

The driving enjoyment, agility and comfort are also down to an accurate steering system which always gives the driver precise feedback. The typical BMW rear-wheel-drive setup, which eliminates torque steer, provides the ideal basis for this. The new BMW 3-Series is fitted with the electromechanical power steering system EPS (Electronic Power Steering), which uses an electric motor to provide steering assistance, with no concessions on the sporty steering characteristics for which this sedan is noted. EPS only operates when steering assistance is actually required: no electrical power is consumed during straightline driving or steady-state cornering. That is what differentiates electromechanical steering from hydraulic systems, which use power and therefore fuel even when not providing steering assistance. Highlights of this system include not only high efficiency but also low weight, high steering precision with good feedback, and comfort-enhancing self-centering and anti-roll characteristics. The BMW 335i and 328i are both equipped as standard with the Servotronic function for speed-sensitive power assistance.

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