Yes, the AMG U88 system in the W465 G-Class can indeed adjust the steering weight based on the differential lock settings, enhancing both handling and stability when navigating off-road conditions.

Here's how it works:

1. Differential Lock Settings and Steering Response:

• The W465 G-Class is equipped with multiple differential locks (front, rear, and center), which are designed to improve traction in off-road conditions by ensuring that the wheels on each axle rotate at the same speed, even when one or more wheels lose grip.
• When a differential lock is engaged, the vehicle's drivetrain dynamics change significantly. In such scenarios, the AMG U88 system adjusts the steering weight to provide the driver with better control and responsiveness, accounting for the traction changes and differentials' behavior.

2. Steering Weight Adjustment for Traction Control:

• Engaging a differential lock affects the distribution of torque across the wheels, which can lead to increased resistance in the steering, especially when the wheels are forced to rotate at the same speed under low traction conditions (e.g., off-road, muddy, or loose surfaces).
• The AMG U88 system responds by adjusting the steering weight to help the driver maintain precise control. The system increases steering effort slightly when the differential lock is engaged, ensuring that the driver can feel the connection between the wheels and the terrain, while preventing the steering from becoming overly light or vague in these challenging conditions.

3. Balancing Steering Feedback for Better Handling:

• With the differential lock engaged, especially when moving over obstacles or uneven surfaces, the steering feedback may become more sensitive because the wheels are working together more closely. The U88 system compensates for this by modifying the steering feel to help the driver handle these forces more comfortably. For example, the system might offer firmer steering to give the driver better feedback and control as the vehicle maneuvers through rough terrain.
• This adjustment helps reduce steering fatigue when navigating difficult surfaces, as the driver can expect a more consistent and balanced feel in the steering, even as the vehicle is locked into a more rigid traction mode.

4. Dynamic Steering Effort Based on Off-Road Mode:

• The U88 system works in tandem with the off-road driving modes that are linked to the differential lock settings. When a specific terrain mode is selected (like Mud, Sand, or Rock Crawl), the system adjusts the steering effort to match the challenges posed by the terrain.
• For instance, when all three differentials are locked (such as in Rock Crawl mode), the system may increase steering feedback to help the driver feel more connected to the vehicle's traction and assist in maneuvering through obstacles like rocks or steep inclines. This also helps in preventing the vehicle from veering off course when navigating tight off-road trails.

5. Feedback for Steering Control on Slippery Terrain:

• When the center and rear differential locks are engaged on slippery surfaces, the U88 system adjusts the steering feel to avoid excessive understeering or oversteering, which can occur when the vehicle struggles to maintain grip.
• On such surfaces, the system may offer reduced steering effort to ensure that the driver can make quick corrections without fighting against overly heavy steering. This is particularly useful when navigating through mud, snow, or ice where traction may be uneven across the wheels.

6. Providing Optimal Control on Steep Terrain:

• On steep inclines or declines, particularly with locked differentials, the system adjusts the steering feel to ensure that the driver can maintain optimal control. With locking differentials, the vehicle's wheels are more rigidly connected, and steering precision becomes critical.
• The U88 system helps maintain balance by fine-tuning the steering response. This is especially useful in situations where one side of the vehicle might be on uneven ground while the other side is more level, as it allows the driver to adjust quickly to changes in grip and vehicle movement.

7. Coordination with Suspension and Traction Systems:

• The AMG U88 system works in conjunction with other systems like suspension adjustments and the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. When differential locks are engaged, these systems are fine-tuned to ensure that steering and traction are optimized. For example, if the rear differential lock is engaged, the system may increase steering feedback to give the driver a clearer sense of control, helping the vehicle maintain its course as it moves through challenging off-road environments.

8. Improved Steering at Low Speeds:

• When maneuvering at low speeds, especially in off-road environments where the differential locks are engaged, the AMG U88 system helps with precise low-speed steering. The increased steering effort, when paired with the locked differentials, makes the steering feel more firm and connected, allowing for better control when navigating obstacles, sharp turns, or steep inclines.

Summary:

The AMG U88 system enhances steering control and handling in the W465 G-Class by adjusting the steering weight in response to the activation of the differential locks. Here are the key ways this system improves handling:

• Increased steering effort when differential locks are engaged to provide better feedback on challenging terrain.
• Dynamic steering weight adjustments to help the driver maintain control on off-road surfaces, such as mud, snow, or rocky paths.
• Enhanced steering precision during aggressive off-road maneuvers, particularly in low-speed or high-torque situations.
• Coordination with traction and suspension systems to optimize stability and control when navigating tough terrain with locked differentials.

This interplay ensures that the AMG U88 system helps the driver maintain a balanced and responsive steering feel, even when the vehicle is operating in the most challenging off-road conditions.