The "yoke" steering wheel is becoming popular and will reach Mercedes-Benz

A couple of years ago, we saw the introduction of “yoke” steering wheels in the Tesla models. An innovation that was initially very well received by users, because it represented an aesthetic and futuristic advance for that element. But after some time in use, it turned out to be far from practical, and users began to protest. So Tesla began to phase out this type of steering wheel, although now it seems another brand is considering using it.

According to information provided by the German outlet Handelsblatt, this steering wheel will be present in several Mercedes-Benz models, so it could remain on the market. Apparently, it will be in high-end models such as the Mercedes EQS and the Mercedes S-Class, where it will be available as part of the equipment.

An improvement over the Tesla model

To prevent users from rejecting this steering wheel, Mercedes says it will use a different steering system. It will do away with the steering column so that the system is fully electric. In addition, it will fit several sensors that will detect speed and other variables so that the wheels turn more or less depending on the car’s needs at each moment.

Mercedes says that to perform a parking maneuver, the driver would only need to turn the wheel 90º, which will make this maneuver easier. Another novelty these luxury vehicles will feature is the disappearance of touch buttons in favor of the return of physical controls, something other brands have already previewed.

The steering wheel design that Mercedes will use will be different from that of Tesla and will be, according to the brand, more functional and efficient, so it could become a good solution for helping with the handling of the car and adding a design touch to it. There are no images of Mercedes’s proposal, but we have seen what the steering wheel looks like on the Mercedes Vision One-Eleven Concept, a concept car that previews the styling and electric models that will come from the German company.

Why Mercedes wants “yoke” steering wheels

For the German manufacturer, using this type of steering wheel will allow drivers to have better visibility of the instrument cluster and the road. It also anticipates the use of autonomous driving systems. A wheel of this shape is easier to tuck under the dashboard if the driver decides to hand control of the vehicle over to the autonomous system.

The Level 3 autonomous driving system will reach the market in various countries in 2024, but the brand will wait a little longer before fitting its cars with this steering wheel. It will not reach the Mercedes EQS and the Mercedes S-Class until 2025.