Nio ensures that all computer controls, communications, and electromechanical components are duplicated. Separate electrical architecture zones enhance reliability by controlling communication and power pathways. An independent monitor assesses discrepancies and selects a "winner" in conflicting scenarios. Distinctive elements include:
- Single motor with multi-phase winding
- Dual control systems with sufficient steering power
- Separate DC-DC converters and CAN bus connections
- Multiple steering torque and position sensors
Nio takes inspiration from aviation, diversifying development teams and suppliers for its systems. This reduces the risk of simultaneous failures, setting it apart from Tesla’s strategy.
In a rare steering failure, Nio's system can:
- Engage rear steering
- Apply brakes to one or both wheels on the intended steering side
These features offer a safety net far beyond conventional systems.
Nio's rigorous testing aimed for failures to be as rare as events per trillion hours. While Tesla's redundancy remains intriguing, China’s current regulations prohibit the Cybertruck, making Nio’s ET9 unique in this aspect.
Summary: Nio's steer-by-wire system incorporates comprehensive safety measures, potentially positioning it as a leader over Tesla in terms of redundancy and reliability. While further testing, particularly in diverse conditions, will validate this claim, Nio's innovative approach could set a new benchmark in automotive safety standards.
