Abstract
Emphasis on authentic steering feel and high safety and availability standards led to the development of AFS, a by wire steering with a permanent mechanical link between driver and front wheels, enabling nevertheless computer control of front wheel steering angle and steering effort. AFS enhances comfort by variable virtual steering ratio. It reduces the response time of the car by lead steer, controls the yaw rate during extreme manoeuvres and compensates asymmetric brake forces on split. Road tests showed high performance and acceptance by test drivers and customers. AFS will be available in one of BMW's next model generations.