Tesla Model S new steering wheel: is it real?
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it seems that a few car journalists actually think the new “Yoke” steering wheel in the refreshed Tesla Model S is not real. That somehow, it is just on these computer-generated illustrations. But will not make it to production.
I unfortunately think they are wrong. The photo above was taken directly from the Tesla website, where you can already order the “new” Model S, for delivery in March. And that steering wheel is part of the official features of the car. it also seems to be standard with no regular version offered at all.
It seems the new steering wheel is universally being trashed on every site I have visited so far. What a weird move from Tesla. Trying to only appeal to rich video game bros now?
What do you think? have you read anything positive about it?
The problem is that I don't see how this meets U.S. safety regulations, which require an enclosed steering WHEEL. So, they may have it on their website, but I don't know how they're actually able to legally sell them unless something changes.
that is probably for autonomous driving?
How is that even legal??
The only regulation I could find… "The steering wheel shall be secured and must not have any spokes cracked through or missing". So this meets that requirement. Nowhere do the regulations define the shape of a "steering wheel". You may think it's obvious that wheel=circle, but it's not in the regulations. IMO, Tesla is probably getting customers used to a "half wheel" in preparation for the day it goes away entirely.
How are you supposed to do a full turn without your hands slipping off the yoke?
If you think it’s not real the yoke’s on you.
Can't see more than 2 turn lock to lock. Which means very twitchy steering, which means most people are not going to be able to handle it. Me included. Road obstacles would be "Fun" to steer around.
How am I supposed to lazily drape my wrist over the top of this so-called steering wheel, like most guys do?