Medium and Heavy-duty Truck Steering System Market Size, Share & Outlook to 2033

Medium and Heavy-duty Truck Steering System Market Overview

The Medium and Heavy-duty Truck Steering System Market size was valued at USD 2083.22 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 2533.94 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 2.2% from 2025 to 2033.

The global medium and heavy-duty truck steering system market is experiencing significant growth, driven by advancements in technology and increasing demand for efficient transportation solutions. As of 2023, the market is projected to reach approximately 20 million units by 2033, up from around 12 million units in 2023, indicating a substantial increase in demand for advanced steering systems. Hydraulic steering systems currently dominate the market with a 45% share, followed by electric power steering (EPS) at 30%, and manual steering systems at 25%. The shift towards EPS is notable, as it offers improved fuel efficiency and reduced maintenance compared to traditional hydraulic systems. Regionally, North America leads the market, accounting for approximately 35% of the global share, followed by Europe at 30%, and Asia-Pacific at 25%. The growth in Asia-Pacific is particularly noteworthy, driven by rapid industrialization and infrastructure development in countries like China and India.

Key Findings

Top Driver Reason: The increasing demand for electric and hybrid trucks necessitates the adoption of advanced steering systems like EPS, which offer better energy efficiency and integration with autonomous driving technologies.

Top Country/Region: North America holds the largest market share at approximately 35%, driven by stringent safety regulations and the presence of major truck manufacturers.

Top Segment: Hydraulic power steering systems currently dominate the market with a 45% share, but electric power steering systems are rapidly gaining traction due to their advantages in fuel efficiency and integration with modern vehicle technologies.

Medium and Heavy-duty Truck Steering System Market Trends

The medium and heavy-duty truck steering system market is experiencing a period of rapid innovation and structural transformation due to technological advancements, regulatory pressures, and evolving logistics and transportation requirements. One of the most prominent trends is the growing adoption of electric power steering (EPS), especially in hybrid and electric trucks. EPS accounted for approximately 30% of the total market in 2023, and this figure is projected to grow substantially as OEMs seek to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions. EPS systems eliminate the need for engine-driven hydraulic pumps, thereby saving power and enhancing vehicle fuel economy by up to 5–7% on average. Another significant trend is the integration of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) into steering functionalities. Manufacturers are developing smart steering technologies that can interface with sensors and cameras to enable automated lane keeping, obstacle avoidance, and adaptive steering inputs. In Europe and North America, over 20% of newly manufactured trucks in 2024 were equipped with ADAS-compatible steering systems, and this figure is expected to increase further with the rollout of autonomous driving regulations. The adoption of steer-by-wire technology is also becoming increasingly notable. This technology removes the mechanical linkage between the steering wheel and the wheels, offering design flexibility, weight reduction, and enhanced safety features. Pilot projects involving steer-by-wire systems for heavy-duty trucks showed a 20% improvement in steering response times and a 15% reduction in maintenance costs over traditional systems. Additionally, the focus on driver ergonomics and comfort is influencing the design of steering systems. Manufacturers are incorporating adjustable steering columns, integrated controls, and vibration damping features to reduce driver fatigue—an important factor in long-haul operations. In a survey of fleet operators in the U.S. conducted in 2023, 78% of respondents indicated that driver comfort plays a significant role in selecting vehicle components, including steering systems. Finally, lightweight materials and modular steering system designs are gaining momentum. Aluminum and high-strength steel are being increasingly used in steering columns and racks, reducing vehicle weight by up to 80 kilograms per truck. This weight reduction directly contributes to improved fuel economy and reduced emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals. As environmental regulations tighten, especially in the European Union and California, the pressure to innovate steering systems in terms of materials and design is only expected to intensify.

Medium and Heavy-duty Truck Steering System Market Dynamics

DRIVER

Rising Demand for Electric and Hybrid Trucks

The global push for cleaner transportation is accelerating the adoption of electric and hybrid trucks, which in turn drives the demand for advanced steering systems like EPS. EPS systems are essential for electric vehicles as they offer improved energy efficiency and are compatible with autonomous driving technologies. In 2023, the EPS segment accounted for 30% of the market, with expectations of significant growth as electrification continues to gain momentum.

RESTRAINT

High Capital Requirements

The development and implementation of advanced steering systems require substantial investment in research and development, manufacturing facilities, and compliance with stringent regulations. These high capital requirements pose a barrier for new entrants and can limit the pace of innovation among smaller players in the market.

OPPORTUNITY

Technological Advancements in Steering Systems

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced sensors into steering systems presents significant opportunities for market growth. AI-driven EPS systems enhance vehicle safety and performance by enabling features like lane centering control and automated parking. These advancements cater to the growing demand for autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles in the commercial trucking sector.

CHALLENGE

Regulatory Compliance and Standardization

Navigating the complex landscape of regional regulations and standards for vehicle safety and emissions presents a significant challenge for manufacturers. Ensuring compliance across different markets requires substantial resources and can hinder the rapid deployment of new technologies.

Medium and Heavy-duty Truck Steering System Market Segmentation

By Type

Heavy-Duty Trucks: These vehicles are primarily used for long-haul transportation and construction applications. The demand for advanced steering systems in heavy-duty trucks is driven by the need for enhanced maneuverability and driver comfort during extended operations. Manufacturers are focusing on integrating EPS and ADAS features to meet these requirements.
Medium-Duty Trucks: Often utilized for urban deliveries and municipal services, medium-duty trucks benefit from steering systems that offer precision and ease of control in congested environments. The adoption of EPS in this segment is growing, with power steering systems accounting for over 80% of the market share in 2023.

By Application

Hydraulic Power Steering: Traditional hydraulic systems continue to dominate the market with a 45% share, valued for their reliability and performance in demanding conditions.
Electric Power Steering (EPS): EPS systems are gaining traction due to their energy efficiency and compatibility with modern vehicle technologies. In 2023, EPS accounted for 30% of the market, with projections indicating significant growth as electrification trends continue.
Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering: Combining the benefits of hydraulic and electric systems, electro-hydraulic steering offers improved fuel efficiency and reduced maintenance. This hybrid approach is particularly beneficial for vehicles transitioning from traditional to fully electric systems.

Medium and Heavy-duty Truck Steering System Market Regional Outlook

The medium and heavy-duty truck steering system market exhibits unique characteristics across different regions, influenced by factors such as industrial growth, transportation infrastructure, emission regulations, and the adoption of electric and autonomous vehicles.

North America

North America maintains a leading position in the market, accounting for approximately 35% of the global share in 2023. The dominance of this region is attributed to a well-established trucking industry, stringent emission and safety regulations by agencies like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and strong consumer demand for high-performance vehicles. The U.S. and Canada are early adopters of electric trucks, which has led to a rapid increase in demand for EPS and steer-by-wire systems. Additionally, investments in autonomous trucking, particularly in logistics corridors across the Midwest and Southwest U.S., are contributing to the increased integration of ADAS into steering systems.

Europe

Europe follows closely with a 30% market share, driven by the region’s robust commercial vehicle production and emphasis on green mobility solutions. Countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and France are major hubs for automotive innovation. The European Union’s Green Deal and CO₂ emission targets have accelerated the adoption of electrified steering systems. Moreover, European manufacturers like ZF and Bosch are at the forefront of developing smart and modular steering technologies. Europe also has one of the highest penetration rates of ADAS-equipped trucks, and new legislative frameworks are being drafted to mandate further integration of safety technologies into commercial vehicles by 2026.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific represents around 25% of the global market and is projected to witness the fastest growth over the next decade. China is the largest producer of commercial vehicles globally, with over 4.2 million medium and heavy-duty trucks manufactured in 2023 alone. The Chinese government’s focus on reducing air pollution and improving road safety has led to policies that favor electric and hybrid vehicles. This, in turn, is driving the demand for intelligent steering systems. India, Japan, and South Korea are also witnessing increased investments in manufacturing facilities and R&D centers focused on steering system innovations. The booming logistics, e-commerce, and construction industries in these countries continue to create robust demand for heavy-duty trucks with advanced steering features.

Middle East & Africa

Middle East & Africa, though a smaller market currently, is rapidly developing its transportation infrastructure and modernizing vehicle fleets. The region accounted for approximately 10% of the global market share in 2023. The construction boom in countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar is leading to increased procurement of heavy-duty trucks, many of which now come equipped with hydraulic or electro-hydraulic steering systems. Additionally, South Africa and Egypt are emerging as key markets with growing local demand for commercial vehicles. The gradual electrification of fleets in the Middle East and pilot programs for autonomous vehicles in smart cities such as NEOM are expected to create future opportunities for advanced steering systems.

List of Top Medium and Heavy-duty Truck Steering System Market Companies

Robert Bosch GmbH
ZF Friedrichshafen AG
Nexteer Automotive
RH Sheppard Co., Inc.
Hitachi Astemo
China Automotive Systems, Inc. (CAAS)
JTEKT Corporation
Mando Corporation

Top Two Companies with Highest Market Shares

Robert Bosch GmbH: A leading player in the market, Bosch's steering systems are known for their precision and advanced technologies. In 2022, Bosch's market sales revenue amounted to USD 500 million, with projections to reach USD 575 million by 2030.
ZF Friedrichshafen AG: ZF has made significant investments in the electrification of steering systems. In 2023, ZF launched its next-generation electric power steering system for trucks, which reduces energy consumption by over 15% compared to conventional hydraulic systems. ZF’s market share was approximately 12% in the global medium and heavy-duty truck steering system market as of 2023, with operations spanning across over 30 countries and manufacturing in key regions including North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The medium and heavy-duty truck steering system market is currently witnessing a wave of investments, with OEMs and suppliers pouring capital into R&D, production capabilities, and strategic collaborations. Between 2021 and 2024, over $2.5 billion was invested globally in the development of electric and intelligent steering systems tailored for commercial trucks. A significant portion of this investment was directed toward the integration of AI-based steering assistance systems and sensor-enabled EPS technologies that allow for semi-autonomous driving features. In 2023, Robert Bosch GmbH committed over $300 million toward enhancing its electric power steering production lines in Germany and Mexico to meet the rising demand in the North American and European markets. Meanwhile, Nexteer Automotive invested $150 million in expanding its R&D center in China to focus on software-driven steering innovation, aimed at supporting the rapid transition to electric commercial fleets in Asia-Pacific. Another key area of investment has been in lightweight materials. In 2023, several Tier-1 suppliers began shifting to aluminum-intensive steering components, helping to reduce total truck weight by an average of 75–100 kg per unit, contributing directly to fuel savings. Startups and mid-sized companies are also receiving capital influx. In 2024, a U.S.-based startup focused on steer-by-wire technology raised $50 million in Series B funding, planning to pilot its systems in fleet vehicles by early 2025. This points to an emerging sub-sector ripe for venture capital and private equity participation. Fleet operators, especially in logistics and construction, are showing increasing interest in retrofitting old vehicles with next-gen EPS systems, creating a growing aftermarket opportunity valued at over $650 million in 2023 and expected to grow steadily as sustainability targets increase. Geographically, Asia-Pacific and North America are leading in steering-related investments. In 2024, over 60% of all global capital expenditures in this domain were recorded in China, India, the U.S., and Canada combined.

New Product Development

Product innovation in the steering system market has accelerated significantly over the past two years, with a sharp focus on intelligent automation, electrification, and enhanced safety features. In 2023, Hitachi Astemo introduced a modular EPS system for medium-duty trucks capable of supporting advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). This platform allows for scalable integration in hybrid as well as battery electric trucks. Field tests conducted in Japan demonstrated a 10% reduction in steering effort and 15% improved response time in evasive maneuvering scenarios. CAAS (China Automotive Systems) launched a new generation of hydraulic-electronic hybrid systems, enabling smoother transitions between manual and powered control—particularly useful for long-haul drivers dealing with varying road conditions. By 2024, this product had already been integrated into more than 25,000 units of medium-duty trucks manufactured in Southeast Asia. Mando Corporation unveiled its steer-by-wire system for heavy-duty trucks, eliminating mechanical linkages entirely. The pilot trials in South Korea showed a 20% reduction in component failure rates and a 12% improvement in lane-keeping accuracy, highlighting the viability of fully electronic steering systems even in high-load vehicles. Meanwhile, Nexteer Automotive enhanced its Smart Flow Control System (SFCS) in 2024, allowing trucks to adapt steering responsiveness based on speed, load, and road conditions. More than 40,000 trucks in North America are currently equipped with SFCS, improving handling performance by 18% compared to earlier generation systems. ZF Friedrichshafen introduced its Level 2 Autonomous Ready EPS, designed to work in tandem with radar and LIDAR sensors for advanced driver assistance. Deployed in European logistics fleets, this product recorded a 23% improvement in vehicle path accuracy and reduced steering correction input by 30%, further reducing driver fatigue. These innovations are not only improving safety and performance but also reinforcing the role of the steering system as a critical hub for vehicle intelligence and autonomy.

Five Recent Developments

Robert Bosch GmbH (2024): Expanded its EPS production facility in Mexico by 30,000 sq ft, increasing output capacity by 20% to meet demand from U.S. and Canadian OEMs.
ZF Friedrichshafen AG (2023): Launched its ""Active Comfort Steering"" system for heavy-duty vehicles in the European market, improving driver comfort scores by 25% in field evaluations.
Nexteer Automotive (2024): Introduced Cybersecure EPS Architecture, designed to prevent tampering with steering controls in connected and autonomous trucks. Already adopted by three major OEMs across North America.
Hitachi Astemo (2024): Signed a joint venture with an Indian truck manufacturer to localize production of EPS systems. The plant aims to manufacture 50,000 units annually starting Q1 2025.
CAAS (2023): Partnered with a Chinese logistics conglomerate to retrofit 10,000 delivery trucks with hybrid steering systems by end-2024, reducing average vehicle downtime by 18%.

Report Coverage of Medium and Heavy-duty Truck Steering System Market

This comprehensive report provides in-depth coverage of the medium and heavy-duty truck steering system market, examining the full spectrum of product types, applications, regional markets, and competitive dynamics shaping the global landscape. It categorically analyzes key product segments such as Hydraulic Power Steering (HPS), Electric Power Steering (EPS), and Electro-Hydraulic Steering Systems, evaluating their respective shares, growth trajectories, and technological evolution. By type, the study covers both medium-duty trucks (typically 6-12 tons) and heavy-duty trucks (12 tons and above), offering a breakdown of steering system requirements specific to each class of vehicle. The report includes detailed regional performance analysis across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa, highlighting variations in demand, manufacturing capacity, and regulatory pressures. For instance, the North American market is shown to prioritize ADAS-integrated steering systems, while Asia-Pacific demonstrates a strong push for cost-effective and scalable solutions due to high production volumes. Competitive profiling is carried out for major players including Robert Bosch GmbH, ZF, Nexteer Automotive, Hitachi, CAAS, JTEKT, Mando, and RH Sheppard Co., Inc, with emphasis on their product innovations, market strategies, and regional strengths. The report identifies Bosch and ZF as the top two companies, commanding a combined market influence of over 20%. Emerging trends like steer-by-wire, AI-assisted navigation, cybersecurity in steering controls, and retrofit EPS solutions are explored in depth, outlining their long-term implications for both OEMs and the aftermarket. The scope of this report is global, with historical data from 2020–2022, base year analysis for 2023, and forecasts up to 2033. It also features insights from over 100 stakeholders, including manufacturers, technology providers, fleet operators, and regulators, ensuring multi-angle coverage of market forces. Furthermore, the report integrates quantitative figures in every section to support strategic planning, investment analysis, product development, and expansion strategy formulation for stakeholders operating in this fast-evolving market.