Electric vehicle pioneer Tesla submitted a new patent application for a new technology that may significantly reshape the traditional car interiors, The Cool Down reports.
However, it must be noted that the patent is not entirely “new,” as Lexus is set to launch a model with the same technology.
Steer-by-wire system
Tesla’s names the new technology patent “steer-by-wire” system, Electrek indicated. It significantly deviates from conventional steering systems that still employ mechanical connections between the steering wheel and the exterior wheels.
In contrast, the steer-by-wire system supports a U-shaped yoke steering compared to the normal round wheel. It extends the vehicle’s interior space to enable various configurations and layouts.
It is also crucial for the Musk-led company’s commitment to launch EV models with modern aesthetics.
Significance
Notably, Tesla equipped the popular Model S and X revamp with a yoke steering wheel. However, many customers were not happy with the update without the steer-by-wire system.
The lack of this technology caused confusion and nuisance among owners towards the new steering wheel design as Tesla did not clearly explain the purpose of the update.
In response to the negative reviews, Tesla launched the conventional round steering wheels as an option for dissatisfied owners. However, the replacement requires additional cost.
The once-standard yoke steering also became an option for an initial price of $250 to $1,000 in the US market, Not A Tesla App noted. This astounding 300% increase also extended to
Lexus’ pioneers in the new tech with the RZ 450e model
Tesla’s steer-by-wire system patent is not entirely “new,” as Toyota’s Lexus brand plans to launch the RZ 450e in the market featuring the same technology.
Notably, the RZ 450e will be Lexus’ inaugural battery-electric vehicle (BEV) offering with a base price of t $59,650.
Tesla’s decision to employ the new technology may be a crucial part of the company’s efforts to advance its autonomous driving technology. However, it can also be a huge development for human driving, particularly in tuning the steering for the yoke steering upgrade.
