With the announcement of a new Model S Plaid D Model X PlaidTesla introduced a new type of flywheel, controversial yoke. Its shape is not round, but elongated and optimized for greater visibility. In addition, it lacks the turn signal levers, which are performed directly using the tactile buttons on the steering wheel, and the gear lever, which is performed on the screen.
Like New Model C D Model X to enter new markets, Tesla has upgraded some components, including front and rear lights, a Europe-specific charging port (CCS), or a better screen for a row of rear seats. But in a rather unexpected move, take steps back with the steering wheel yoke and offer in the configurator the possibility of purchasing it with a round steering wheel. In fact, this is the default option, which is even more surprising.
When was the new flyer announced yoke, Elon Musk explained that the change allows for better visibility while driving. Some of us who have had the opportunity to try it feel that the position of the hands is more correct and appropriate. Not only so that the hands do not interfere with the deployment of the airbag, but also to control the car at high speeds.
But maneuvering at lower speeds can be a problem for some, especially in the city. My driving experience yoke is that after a few hours you get used to a new way of life. But choosing turn signals can be cumbersome in certain situations.
This problem will not be solved with a round steering wheel, because, like yoke, does not include turn signal or shift levers. This is still done using buttons or selections on the screen.
Why is Tesla going back to the yoke steering wheel and offering round again on the Model S and Model X?
One of my theories about the return of the round rudder to Model C D Model X It’s a response to a series of steps the company is taking to re-engage potential customers who feel Tesla’s innovations are changing their habits too much. The feeling – somewhat wrong, in my opinion – is the effort involved in changing the way you drive. yoke may lead to failure. This will make many refuse to buy one of these cars.
I also have a suspicion that in Europe the steering wheel simply did not appeal to most potential customers. But since Tesla does not disclose this kind of data, and they do not have a communications department, it is impossible to know. Although I don’t know how much coincidence is behind the announcement a few days after the first shipments of the Model S Plaid and Model X Plaid.
The change also runs counter to Tesla’s philosophy, promoted by Elon Musk, of making the most of the company’s innovation, whether in terms of new products or features and functionality in existing vehicles, through the lens of fully autonomous driving innovation. part of the meaning yoke is the visibility of both screens by the driver, especially when the car is driving alone. But it is clear that this is still many years away. Hopefully, this also means that the manufacturer’s internal efforts will once again be focused more on a $25,000 car rather than a potential robot taxi that will only be able to circulate in the very few cities and regions where it is legal.
For those owners Model C or Model X with steering wheel yokeTesla offers an upgrade to a round steering wheel for $650 in the US or €900 in Europe. It will be available from March 2023.
Source: Hiper Textual
