Hyundai’s New ‘Crab Walk Movement’ Steering System will make parking easier

For those who struggle with parking, Hyundai has developed a new steering system that offers relief. The e-Corner System, created by Hyundai Mobis, a supplier arm of Hyundai, allows each wheel to be controlled independently, providing manoeuvrability that was previously impossible.

Unveiled earlier this year at CES in Las Vegas, the system has recently garnered attention. The e-Corner System was demonstrated on the Ioniq 5, showcasing four impressive manoeuvres. The system's success is attributed to its steering angle, which enables all four wheels to turn 90 degrees. The first manoeuvre demonstrated is a lateral movement, known as a crab walk, from left to right.

In essence, the e-Corner System offers drivers an innovative approach to steering, making parking and other manoeuvres easier and more efficient. With this new technology, drivers can enjoy a more seamless driving experience, particularly in tight spaces where traditional parking can be difficult.

The second impressive manoeuvre demonstrated with the e-Corner System is the zero turn. In this manoeuvre, the front and rear wheels turn in opposite directions, creating a spin-in-place turn. The front wheels turn towards each other, while the rear wheels turn away from each other.

The third manoeuvre showcased is a diagonal turn, where all four wheels turn in the same direction at an angle, similar to a faster version of the crab walk. Finally, the e-Corner System demonstrates a pivot turn, where the rear wheels turn 90 degrees in opposite directions, causing the back of the vehicle to swing around.

While Hyundai has not provided any technical specifications or announced plans for the e-Corner System's production, the video highlights an interesting development. As an auto engineer, it's clear that the system's independent wheel control could potentially enhance a vehicle's stability and handling, particularly in challenging driving conditions.

This technology could be particularly useful for larger vehicles that typically have more challenging turning circles. Ultimately, the e-Corner System offers a glimpse into the future of vehicle steering and manoeuvrability.

From an engineering perspective, it appears that each wheel of the vehicle is equipped with its own motor or steering system, allowing for independent movement of each wheel. This innovative technology provides greater control and manoeuvrability of the vehicle, particularly in tight spaces where traditional steering may be challenging.

While the e-Corner System is an exciting development, it's worth noting that this is not the first time that such a concept has been considered. Back in the 1930s, Packard developed a fifth-wheel concept vehicle that featured a wheel located at the back of the vehicle. At the pull of a dash-mounted lever, the wheel would drop down from a continental kit and enable the rear of the vehicle to swing around into a desired spot.

While Packard's concept was ahead of its time, the e-Corner System takes vehicle steering and manoeuvrability to the next level by allowing for independent movement of each wheel. This technology offers a glimpse into the future of vehicle design and may pave the way for more advanced steering systems in the years to come.