Toyota iQ: The centre take-off steering gear

The second in Toyota’s series of cut-paste-and-print guides to the ground-breaking design and engineering features of the new iQ looks at the benefits gained from using a centre take-off steering gear.

By saving space under the bonnet, Toyota has been able to achieve exceptional room inside iQ, creating a car that is less than three metres long, yet has four seats on board. Using a centre take-off steering gear for the Electric Power Steering (EPS), a first for a Toyota vehicle, is a key element in achieving this ultra-compact design.

On conventional rack and pinion steering systems, like those used in the Toyota Aygo and Yaris, the tie rods are connected to each end of the steering rack, while on a centre take-off system they are connected to the centre.

This configuration allowed Toyota to position the system above rather than below the engine and further back towards the bulkhead, reducing the car’s front overhang. The result is a smaller engine compartment and more cabin space.