An active human-machine interface system is implemented without a force sensor. The system includes a user interface that is configured to receive user input and, upon receipt thereof, to move to a position. A position sensor is coupled to the user interface and is operable to sense user interface position and supply a position signal representative thereof. A motor is coupled to the user interface and to receive motor current. In response to the motor current the motor supplies a feedback force to the user interface at a magnitude proportional to the motor current. A control circuit is coupled to receive at least the position signal and a signal representative of the motor current and controls the motor current supplied to the motor.