Germany / The Netherlands – Mobil Elektronik GmbH* of Langenbrettach, a specialist in electro-hydraulic steer-by-wire systems, has developed a system aimed at increasing manoeuvrability of two axle public transport vehicles. An example of the system is to be displayed at the forthcoming Busworld 2019 event in Brussels – this will be aboard a Movitas electric bus built by Dutch manufacturer, Tribus BV of Utrecht. 

The EHLA Optimal system from Mobil Elektronik, derived from a well proven system used in a number of different vehicle segments, is designed specifically for two axle buses. It features a safety system that hydraulically locks the steering rear axle in the event of any failure – enabling full control of steering to be retained. A core component is the safety steering computer, which can map the highest level of safety up to ASIL D**. A hydraulic accumulator and a special steering cylinder ensure that in the event of a malfunction the rear axle is immediately centred and hydraulically locked so that it behaves like a rigid axle.