Electric automaker Tesla will apparently introduce an improved version of its contentious yoke steering in July 2023.
Notably, a Service Advisor disclosed the news to Reddit user @u/Global_Chaos, who shared it with the online platform.
“A new yoke with improved materials will be available to service in July 2023. We do not recommend replacing the Yoke until improved parts are available.”
Tesla
What’s the big deal?
Interestingly, the news regarding version 2 yoke steering emerged just weeks after Tesla launched a $700 retrofit round steering wheel kit for the Yoke.
In hindsight, Tesla first equipped the Model S and X in the Summer of 2021. Notably, it was initially standard equipment for these EVs.
However, Tesla reversed its course on yoke steering and reintroduced the round option on January 2023. The move is partly due to many complaints from Tesla owners over safety issues.
A significant source of criticism is the Yoke’s unsuitability for maneuvering in confined locations and at modest speeds.
While the shape may seem trendy, some drivers might find it unsettling.
Apart from that, many Tesla owners also raised concerns about the Yoke’s build quality, stating that its surface rapidly degrades. The automaker’s vegan leather appears to be the main cause of the said issue on the Yoke.
Timeline
The new, upgraded Yoke’s July 2023 launch date aligns with Tesla’s planned Cybertruck production.
We can only assume that Tesla will provide something akin to what it showcased at the most recent Investor Day, as the most recent Beta production builds had a new Yoke design.
Interestingly, the inside of the Cybertruck has a rounder and marginally different design than the one Tesla is currently selling. Although there are no confirmations yet from the automaker, some indicators that it might be similar can be observed in the timing alone.
