Since its introduction, Tesla’s steering yoke has been a lightning rod for criticism. Although it was the only available option for certain vehicles at first, an update to Tesla’s website now shows that the feature has become an optional extra that costs $250.
Tesla’s configurator pages for the Model S and the Model X show that along with the color, the “Steering Control” system is one of two interior options for the electric sedan, and one of three for the SUV whose buyers can also choose their seating layout. While the traditional, round steering wheel is “included,” the Yoke adds $250 to the price of both vehicles regardless of trim level.
Steering yokes are by no means exclusive to Tesla. The style of steering control has become popular in racecars, because it shaves away everything except the part of the steering wheel that the driver’s hands touch. That helps cut a little bit of weight and aids visibility to the instrument panel and the road.
Read: Tesla’s Round Steering Wheel Retrofit Reportedly Sells Out In Just A Week
However, while racecar drivers don’t often need to move their hands away from the “9-and-3” position, that’s less true of drivers on the road. In the real world, where parking maneuvers and tight turns are common, a full steering wheel is often very useful.
The yoke even became the cause of some legislative anxiety when it was first introduced in 2021. While the question of the yoke’s legality seems to have been settled, its utility has been challenged by the likes of Consumer Reports and Engineering Explained, to name just two prominent examples, and full wheel retrofits were eventually introduced to appease buyers who did not like the new awkward control.
Even for buyers who seem not to mind the shape have raised concerns about the yoke, though. Several owners have noted that the finish of the vegan leather that covers the part is quick to peel away. While no one has yet complained about that affecting the utility of the yoke, it is unsightly, and a quality control issue that buyers of vehicles with six-figure price tags are not accustomed to.
While charging extra for such a controversial feature may seem like a questionable decision, it’s probably best that Tesla didn’t do it the other way around, and charge customers for the privilege of using a less awkward steering control.
