What type of steering system uses a belt-driven pump to assist steering?

Hydraulic power steering is a type of steering system that utilizes a belt-driven pump to assist the driver in steering the vehicle. In this system, the engine drives the pump, which circulates hydraulic fluid through a series of hoses to a steering gear. When the driver turns the steering wheel, the hydraulic fluid pressure helps to move the steering mechanism, significantly easing the effort required to turn the wheel. This type of assist provides smooth and responsive steering, particularly beneficial for larger vehicles or during low-speed maneuvers.

In contrast, electric power steering relies on an electric motor rather than a hydraulic system to provide steering assistance. Manual steering systems do not use any form of power assistance; the driver must rely entirely on their own strength to turn the wheel. Variable ratio steering refers to a design that changes the ratio between the steering wheel movement and the wheel movement based on the angle; it may employ either mechanical or hydraulic systems but does not specifically indicate the use of a belt-driven pump. Therefore, hydraulic power steering is distinct in its reliance on hydraulic fluid pressure generated by a belt-driven pump for steering assistance.