Audi says they have got the hang of it! They have managed to perfect the one thing that is common since the invention of the automobile, well almost. Almost! The Steering Wheel which has been around for 120 years has seen many iterations and revisions over the years. Yet, its basic function remains the same – to give direction to the car. (Fun fact – the first automobiles had a steering lever, not a wheel. So, when did it become the wheel? Check out our Trivia section to find out more) Audi says they have been working hard to achieve the right balance of dynamic handling and comfort, while adding to the safety and support features.

Audi wants the steering wheel to function also as a ‘communication’ device between the driver and the car. Their latest generation of steering wheels are made from diecast frame so that it is lighter and can perform better in terms of strength, dampening, and castability. While staying true to performance there is a leap forward with respect to technology. The new generation steering wheel offers up to 18 functions including capacitive grip recognition.

The capacitive grip recognition can detect not just grip, but even light touches. It can sense when the driver’s hands are not on the steering wheel. If they lose contact for more than 15 seconds a variety of alert systems swing into action. It also bundles in haptics at play under the steering which assist with lane changes as well as steering manoeuvres. There are many such ‘assist’ features like park assist, collision avoidance assist, traffic jam assist and adaptive cruise assist. All of these make the steering wheel a vital tool in increasing the comfort quotient for the driver.

To ensure the best outcome for agility, comfort, and safety Audi has five different steering systems working in sync. This precision and perfection are the result of years of research and development.

Audi has shared some insights about how they achieve the perfect steering for grip and dynamic handling. To begin with they ensure the rim’s geometry and centre is as small and compact as possible. They ensure the steering is 375 mm as the diameter of the oval design of the steering and the rim has a diameter of 30 to 36 mm.

The precision and tenets are ensured right to the angle as well. With respect to the driver’s seating position, the angle of the steering wheel is between 22 to 24 degrees in the Audi SUV range while it is 17 to 21 degrees in the Audi compact cars, Avant series and limousines.

The steering wheels have been designed to ensure that the driver has a clear view of all the information panels, paddle shifters, MID while ensuring every button on the wheel is within the reach of the thumbs.

Which is a welcome move, given how the steering wheel is now as good as the means to operate a high-tech command centre!

We think Audi is headed in the right direction here. Let us know your thoughts. Which is your favourite steering amongst cars?