Tesla, the renowned electric vehicle manufacturer, has recently made some significant changes to its two flagship models, the Model S and Model X. Along with a small price increase, the company has replaced the controversial steering yoke with a traditional round steering wheel. This decision comes after months of debates and speculations on the steering system’s design, which was a polarizing aspect of the vehicles’ overall aesthetic. When Tesla first unveiled the revamped Model S and Model X in 2021, it received mixed responses from the public. The new steering yoke was one of the most discussed features of the cars, and many people questioned its safety and usability. Tesla had previously tested beta units with both a traditional round steering wheel and the new yoke, leading some to believe that the company may offer a choice between the two. However, Tesla CEO Elon Musk confirmed on Twitter that only the yoke would be available in the new models.
Despite the initial criticism, some drivers found the steering yoke to be intuitive and comfortable to use. However, others strongly disliked the design, with many concerns about the safety implications of not having a full steering wheel. Tesla has now responded to this feedback and released a software update that replaces the yoke with a round steering wheel as the default option for the new Model S and Model X. This update has been met with mixed responses from Tesla enthusiasts, with some welcoming the change and others expressing disappointment that the company did not provide a choice between the two steering systems. Nevertheless, the updated models with the traditional round steering wheel have received positive reviews from drivers, with many feeling that the new design is more familiar and easier to use.
Significant changes
Tesla’s decision to replace the steering yoke with a round steering wheel in the Model S and Model X has been a significant change for the company. While the yoke design was a bold and innovative approach to steering, it was not widely accepted by all drivers. By implementing this update, Tesla has shown that it is listening to customer feedback and is willing to make changes to its products accordingly. This move also reaffirms Tesla’s commitment to safety and innovation, ensuring that its vehicles are not only cutting-edge but also reliable and secure.
The Model S’ steering yoke has been a hot topic even in competitive racing circles. During the 2021 Pikes Peak climb, Tesla tuner Unplugged Performance’s Model S Plaid racecar dominated its class with legendary driver Randy Pobst behind the wheel. Despite this, Pobst chose to switch out the car’s yoke for a traditional steering wheel while navigating the challenging mountain’s treacherous curves. However, Tesla seemed to prove a point about the yoke’s capabilities when it set a record lap at the Nurburgring with a factory Model S Plaid.
Despite the yoke’s potential benefits, it seems that consumers prefer the traditional steering wheel for the Model S and Model X. When Tesla offered a retrofit for a round steering wheel for the two vehicles, the offer quickly sold out, indicating a clear preference for the conventional design. As a result, Tesla has decided to equip its flagship vehicles with a regular steering wheel by default, recognizing the sentiments of its customers.
Yoke steering option
Tesla still offers the steering yoke as an option for those who prefer it, though it comes at an additional cost of $250. It will be interesting to see the data on the yoke’s popularity moving forward, given Tesla’s preference for it in its prototypes, including the upcoming next-generation Roadster and Cybertruck. Tesla’s decision to offer a conventional steering wheel as the default option for the Model S and Model X reflects the company’s responsiveness to customer feedback. The yoke design may have been innovative, but it ultimately did not resonate with all drivers. By providing a choice between the two options, Tesla continues to demonstrate its commitment to safety, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
