This is the first time we've seen Hyundai's "e-Corner" four-wheel independent steering system in action on public roads for the first time, and we're mesmerized.
The system, first shown in January, uses a Hyundai Ioniq 5 as a testbed to show off how it can turn each wheel up to 90 degrees individually, allowing for some truly impressive turning maneuvers and ultra-tight park jobs.
With all wheels at full 90-degree lock, parallel parking is made easy, as all the car has to do is drive up to the spot and drive sideways, slotting perfectly into place. The e-Corner system can also perform tight 180-degree pivot turns by adjusting just the back wheels, or pull off a 360-degree tank turn by adjusting all four wheels, all without occupying more than the car's initial footprint.
The e-Corner system, a product of Hyundai's Mobis parts division, uses in-wheel motors along with bespoke brake-by-wire and steer-by-wire systems. The company hasn't said whether it plans to develop the system for mass production, though it's easy to see why it'd be nice to have, especially if you live in a tight urban environment.
Brian Silvestro was Hearst Autos' former lead deputy editor for rankings content. He spent over seven years as a staff writer for Road & Track Magazine where he contributed car reviews, industry interviews, and more. He has a taste for high-mileage, rusted-out projects and amateur endurance racing.