If you’re thinking of replacing your Tesla’s steering yoke with a traditional steering wheel, you waited too long. A new report says that when Tesla sold a steering wheel to replace its unusual steering yoke, owners snapped up the entire supply in less than a week.
Tesla’s Yoke Experiment
Tesla redesigned the interior of its Model S Sedan. The updated cabin was strikingly minimalist, with a driver’s instrument screen, a huge landscape-mounted central infotainment screen, and no other controls.
It also replaced the traditional steering wheel with a pilot-like yoke.
The move instantly won fans and detractors. Some loved the modern look. Others objected that Tesla didn’t create variable steering ratios for the yoke, meaning the cars still required hand-over-hand turns in many circumstances. That left drivers performing awkward maneuvers to complete such turns with a rectangular yoke.
The company later brought the yoke to its Model X SUV as well. But, with the yoke’s mixed reception, Tesla made it optional for both cars. Buyers today can choose a yoke or a traditional wheel for the same price.
A Replacement for Those With Regrets
In January, Tesla began selling replacement steering wheels for those who wanted to part with their yoke.
A new report says they sold out almost instantly. AutoEvolution says Tesla “sold out less than a week after sales started.”
A quick check of the Tesla app this morning shows that the option has disappeared from the accessories store. But buyers can still select it on a new car.
The Yoke Probably Isn’t Dead
Everything Tesla does inspires followers in the automotive industry. Toyota and its Lexus luxury brand introduced yokes on some models overseas last year, though not in the U.S. Toyota’s yoke, however, comes with variable steering ratios so drivers never have to pass hand-over-hand to make sharp turns.
Yokes have also appeared on many concept cars in the two years since Tesla’s debuted. But none have yet reached production in the U.S.
