This vehicle has On-Demand Electric-Assist Power Steering instead of conventional full-time hydraulic power steering. It uses electricity supplied by the same battery which is re-charged by the regenerative braking system.
Because the system is On-Demand Electric-Assist, energy is used only when the steering wheel is turned, or when the steering gear is used to help isolate the forces of rough roads. This system does not use power steering fluid, making it maintenance-free.