German automotive supplier thyssenkrupp Automotive Technology and Chinese technology company Inovance Automotive have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to cooperate on steer-by-wire systems, according to Chinese outlet First Electric (D1EV). The partnership aims to combine thyssenkrupp's expertise in chassis and steering with Inovance's strengths in electronics, software, actuators and industrialization.
Steer-by-wire replaces the mechanical link between the steering wheel and the wheels with electronic signals, making software, functional safety and vehicle architecture integration more critical. Both companies plan to accelerate the development and industrialization of steer-by-wire solutions, initially focusing on the Chinese market before expanding to other international markets.
Complementary strengths
thyssenkrupp brings years of research in steer-by-wire, along with deep capabilities in steering system development, system integration and functional safety. Inovance contributes its expertise in electronics, software and actuators, as well as local research, manufacturing and industrialization capabilities in China.
Viktor Molnar, chief operating officer of thyssenkrupp Automotive Technology, said: "China is rapidly advancing the development and industrialization of new chassis technologies. Inovance has a deep understanding of the local market, customers and industrialization processes. By combining these capabilities with our expertise in steering, system integration and functional safety, we aim to bring steer-by-wire solutions to production readiness faster, while laying the groundwork for expansion beyond China."
Li Juntian, chairman of Inovance Automotive, said: "With thyssenkrupp's proven expertise in chassis technology, this cooperation will accelerate our ability to deliver new intelligent chassis solutions to customers in China and globally."
Broad chassis portfolio
thyssenkrupp's chassis business spans steering systems, damping technology and axle and system assemblies. Its mechanical and mechatronic systems are increasingly enhanced by software, with vehicle motion control (VMC) enabling higher-level control and integration of chassis functions within software-defined vehicle (SDV) architectures.
Inovance, known for electric drive systems and power electronics, also operates in intelligent chassis systems, with a portfolio that includes steer-by-wire, rear-wheel steering, active suspension and electromechanical braking. The two companies said they plan to explore other advanced chassis technologies as future cooperation areas.
Under the MoU, the partners will refine joint development paths, potential industrialization models and long-term cooperation structures over the coming months.
