An electric drive system is provided. The electric drive system includes a first
output member, a second output member, and an electric motor that includes an output
shaft having an axis of rotation. The output shaft is operatively engaged with
the first and second output members to rotate the first and second output members.
A differential steering system is disposed between the electric motor and the first
and second output members. The differential steering system includes at least one
planetary gear assembly that has an axis of rotation that substantially aligns
with the axis of rotation of the output shaft. A steering motor is operatively
engaged with the at least one planetary gear assembly and is operable to modify
the rotational speed of the at least one planetary gear assembly to thereby adjust
the rotational speed of one of the first and second output members relative to
the other of the first and second output members.
