Steering Wheel: Electronics

Last update: 19 Jun. 2025

What are Steering Wheel Electronics?

Valeo’s steering wheel electronics seamlessly integrate essential safety and comfort features directly into the steering wheel. These advanced systems are designed to enhance the driving experience while meeting the highest safety standards, particularly for vehicles equipped with assisted and automated driving capabilities.

A core component of these electronics is the hands-on detection system. This technology plays a crucial role in ensuring driver engagement during transitions between manual driving and assisted or automated modes, such as those found in Level 2, 3, and 4 autonomous vehicles. By precisely monitoring the driver’s interaction with the steering wheel, the system can reliably determine if the driver is actively in control. This is paramount for safety, especially during critical moments when control may need to be transferred between the driver and the vehicle’s automated systems. This feature is not only vital for driver peace of mind but also directly addresses the stringent requirements of the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) testing protocols.

Valeo’s steering wheel electronics are available in two primary configurations. The first option focuses solely on providing this crucial hands-on detection capability. The second configuration integrates both hands-on detection and a steering wheel heating function, adding a layer of comfort to the enhanced safety features. The heated steering wheel option provides a luxurious touch, particularly appreciated in colder climates, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience regardless of the weather conditions.

Valeo’s innovative approach to hands-on detection utilizes a heating mat integrated within the steering wheel. This ingenious solution eliminates the need for separate sensors and wiring, streamlining the design and manufacturing process. By combining the heating and sensing functions into a single component, Valeo significantly reduces the number of steering wheel variants required, typically from three down to just one. This simplification translates to substantial cost savings for vehicle manufacturers without compromising safety. This integrated design contributes to a more efficient and cost-effective solution for automakers.

Valeo's steering wheel electronics: Hands on detection & heating

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What are Valeo Steering Wheel Electronics benefits?

Cost-Effective Solution:
The single-mat solution reduces steering wheel variants and streamlines manufacturing, leading to cost savings for vehicle manufacturers
Improved Comfort:
Offers an optional integrated heating function for a more pleasant driving experience, especially in cold weather
Enhanced Safety:
Ensures driver vigilance and control, especially in assisted and automated driving modes, meeting different normes and regulations

Valeo Steering Wheel Electronics specifications

Multi-Segment Hand Detection:
Supports up to 3 distinct hand detection zones on the steering wheel for enhanced accuracy and control
Flexible Communication:
Compatible with LIN or CAN communication protocols for seamless integration with various vehicle architectures
High Functional Safety:
Meets stringent automotive safety requirements, compliant with ASIL B (C, D) standards
Integrated Heating Element (Optional):
Provides a comfortable heating function within the steering wheel for enhanced driver comfort
Simplified Design:
Single-mat solution combines hand detection and heating for reduced complexity and cost-effective manufacturing

Unique selling points

Valeo is first on the market with its unique Hands-On Detection via heating mat which is Substantial cost saving, ~40% less, and reduces steering wheel variants from 3 to 1
Seamless Integration with Steering Wheel Switches: Integrating Hands-On Detection (HOD) directly within the steering wheel switches provides a streamlined and elegant solution. This integration simplifies system architecture and reduces cost and complexity for vehicle manufacturers
Integrated Bootloader:
Enables efficient software updates and future-proofs the system for evolving vehicle requirements
Over-the-Air Update Capability (Optional):
Offers the potential for convenient over-the-air updates, providing access to the latest features and improvements