Report: 2011 Ford F-150 will get electric power steering

The 2011 Ford F-150 will be the first full-size pickup to be offered with standard electric power steering, as opposed to conventional hydraulic assisted power steering. EPS offers many benefits over the alternative including; increased fuel economy, a nearly infinite tuning of steering feel, and the elimination of hydraulic fluid and hoses.

Until recently, EPS systems were only found in smaller cars and crossovers due to the components being neither strong or efficient enough to support bigger vehicles. Only the 2009-11 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Two-Mode Hybrid pickup trucks offered the technology, because their unique designs provided enough electrical support to power such systems.

The hydraulic system uses an engine-powered pump and pressurized fluid to help a truck turn its wheel’s while EPS uses an electromechanical-motor connected to the steering system. A hydraulic system must also always be powered, while an electric system only requires power during steering maneuvers, hence the vehicle consumes fuel more efficiently.

EPS will not be available for special edition models such as the Raptor or Harley Davidson F-150 due to the heavier displacement engines.

– By: Stephen Calogera

Source: PickupTrucks.com