The controversial "yoke" system, commonly used in aircraft for primary steering controls, has received criticism from owners for its awkwardness during low speed operation and lack of traditional indicator, windscreen wiper, and gear selector stalks.
Unlike its predecessor, the new steering wheel in the Model S and Model X lacks stalks for controlling indicators, windshield wipers, or gear selection. These functions are now controlled through capacitive buttons and controller balls, similar to those found on the yoke.
For those Tesla Model S or X owners who purchased their vehicle with the yoke-style setup and are unhappy with it, Tesla is offering a retrofit option to switch to a traditional steering wheel through its online store. This option will become available in March and will cost $700, including installation through Tesla service.
The reintroduction of a traditional steering wheel in the Model S and Model X represents a significant change in direction for Tesla, specifically for CEO Elon Musk. In 2021, after the company sparked controversy by only offering the yoke option for both models, Musk tweeted that there was no chance a traditional steering wheel would return, even as an option.
Source: Car and Driver
