Tesla’s standard steering yoke for the Model S and Model X variants has drawn some negative criticism since its introduction in 2021. Now, Tesla has finally reintroduced a round steering wheel as standard into its two priciest vehicles, as reported by Electrek.
Tesla’s online configurator now defaults to the round steering wheel instead of the yoke. However, it will also not charge additional cost if you change to the latter.
Customers’ Feedback on the Steering Yoke
Some owners and publications suggested that the steering yoke might be a safety issue. However, CEO Elon Musk insisted that the yoke was here to say.
Some people even asked Musk to reinstate the circular steering wheel option in July 2021, but he refused.
Meanwhile, many have acknowledged that they finally adapted to the yoke since they had no other option. While some appeared to find it amusing to own a Tesla that resembled a race car.
Nonetheless, it could have been better if Tesla had given customers a choice between a yoke and a round steering wheel.
Answered Requests
Finally, Tesla discreetly changed the Model S and Model X’s default steering wheels to circular one.
Meanwhile, the standard steering wheel is also included with the Plaid variants, though it seems likely that the yoke would be the default.
Notably, the yoke’s unsuitability for maneuvering in small spaces and at slow speeds is a major source of criticism. Even if the shape may seem hip, it could be uncomfortable for some drivers. That said, Tesla’s decision to bring back the round steering wheel would please owners and future customers.
Interestingly, Tesla appears to be trying quite hard these days to attract new customers to buy its vehicles.
