Mack Trucks is looking to reduce steering effort on the job site by introducing the Mack Command Steer active steering system to axle-back Mack Granite trucks.

The system uses a series of sensors to monitor terrain, driver inputs, and environmental elements more than 2,000 times per second. That information feeds the actions of an electric motor that supports the existing hydraulic steering system by delivering additional steering torque where required.

The end result can help cut muscle strain by up to 30%, the OEM says.

In addition to reducing steering effort at slow speeds, the system also helps to filter out the shocks of uneven terrain such as the holes, dips and ruts found on jobsites, the company adds. Mack Command Steer also features a return-to-zero capability that automatically returns the steering wheel to the center position in forward and reverse, helping to simplify tight maneuvers like positioning a dump or mixer.

The option will be available for order in the third quarter.