Gasgoo Munich- China State Administration for Market Regulation has approved a new mandatory national standard for automotive steering systems, state broadcaster CCTV reported on January 26. Titled "Basic Requirements for Automobile Steering Systems," the rules will take effect on July 1.
The standard clarifies technical requirements and testing procedures for steering systems, drawing clear safety boundaries for emerging technologies like steer-by-wire. It marks a significant step toward commercializing steer-by-wire technology and guiding the standardized development of China's steering sector.
To solidify the industry's safety baseline and adapt to evolving technology, the revision updates requirements for steer-by-wire systems, traditional steering, and functional safety for auxiliary devices. Beyond protecting public safety, the move uses standardization to drive breakthroughs in core technologies—such as new chassis architectures—and accelerate the iteration of steering technologies in China.
First, safety safeguards are strengthened. The update refines failure protocols for steer-by-wire systems, specifying safety response strategies for scenarios such as power supply loss, control transmission failure, or energy transmission failure. This ensures driving safety remains uncompromised.
Second, alarm mechanisms are improved. The rules define how systems must alert drivers to aging or insufficient performance in steer-by-wire energy storage devices. This mitigates potential risks and supports the long-term safe operation of these systems.
Third, reliable operation is ensured. As steering systems become increasingly dependent on electronic controls—particularly steer-by-wire, which relies entirely on electronics—the standard sets clear functional safety requirements for steering electronic control systems. This aims to prevent unreasonable risks caused by electrical or electronic malfunctions.
Fourth, standard enforcement is bolstered. To improve enforceability, the revision updates requirements for functional safety verification tests and clarifies typical test cases. This provides a technical basis for inspection bodies to conduct document reviews and experimental verification.
