Tesla is introducing a “yoke” steering wheel in 2021 as part of an update to its Model S and Model X ranges. Some customers are against the idea, but CEO Elon Musk insists the yoke is here to say the least. Now though, it looks like Tesla has backtracked from his original sentiment.
First reported by ElectricityTesla updated its online configurator earlier this week to include a no-cost steering wheel option for both S model and X model. You can still put a yoke on one of those cars free of charge, but customers who already own a vehicle with a yoke steering wheel will have to pay extra.
As the YouTuber and Tesla owner points out Marques Brownlee on Twitter, refitting a traditional circular steering wheel to your yoke-equipped car will cost you an additional $700. Tesla website does not list retrofit options in its stores, but the company says it won’t be available until March.
However, unlike the original round steering wheel on the Model S, this one lacks one key feature: the indicator shaft. Drivers still have to use capacitive touch indicators on the wheels themselves, a concept that was first introduced on yokes.
Beyond returning the steering wheel, Tesla included a few other subtle updates for the S and X. Both cars now feature the word “TESLA” sign on the trunk lid as opposed to the traditional Tesla logo, the red brake calipers are also back, and it’s Model S Plaid reportedly offers better brakes with a higher thermal capacity. The Model 3 and Model Y abandoned any changes and still offered a standard steering wheel as the only option.
The Tesla Model S currently starts at $106,990 with a $1,200 destination charge included, while opting for the Checkered will cost $137,190. The Model X, meanwhile, starts at $122,190 for the basic dual-motor all-wheel drive model while the Plaid costs $131,790.
