[Auto / Moto] Tesla Model S restyled: is the 'Yoke' steering wheel legal?

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There are a few weeks, Tesla revealed to the surprise of the restyled version of its Model S and Model X . On the program, a slightly revised exterior style, new Plaid and Plaid + versions that are even more efficient, but above all a completely new interior. In addition to the new presentation, including among others a brand new touch screenin a horizontal and no longer vertical position, this impromptu facelift also marks the arrival of a new steering wheel never before seen on a production model, which has not failed to appeal to the public. And for good reason, its astonishing shape inspired by the world of aeronautics has caused much ink to flow in the specialized press, saluting the audacity of the firm of Elon Musk or on the contrary, questioning the practical aspect and especially legal of this command, called "  Yoke  ", and distinguished by its truncated shape, which may complicate certain maneuvers for example. This one also sparked debate by its lack of physical keys, replaced by touch controls. So what does the law say about this?

 

If nothing has been specifically said for France, you have to look on the side of the Dutch regulations to get a start of an answer. The RDW (Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer), in charge of the administration of vehicles and all the legal aspects around them, affirms that the steering wheel "Yoke" would in no way be illegal in the Netherlands, since it is Accordance with the legislation in force. This being then the same on a European scale, this order is by extension completely legal on all the territory, and even on our premises. Moreover, according to UN-ECE 79 regulation , the steering wheel does not have to meet shape criteria, as long as it respects certain obvious safety constraints, such as the presence of airbags or the fact that the "the direction of actuation of the steering control must correspond to the desired change of direction and there must be a continuous relationship between the control angle and the steering angle  ”. However, the shape is completely free, and Tesla will therefore be able to market this steering wheel with us.

Really practical?

On the other hand, the question of practicality now arises, because this new command can then complicate certain maneuvers, due to the absence of an upper part. This is particularly the case when parking, where you will then have to get used to positioning your hands differently on the steering wheel so as not to be caught off guard. However, systems allowing the car to park without the intervention of the driver should be the beginning of the solution, as should a greater reduction. However, Tesla could also offer a standard round model as an option, so as not to alienate the most reluctant. Regarding touch controls, Europe does not seem to have a problem with it either, while the UN-ECE 121only requires that they be clearly visible and accessible. The only point that could be a problem is the lack of turn signals, with Elon Musk claiming that the car will be able to "guess" for itself which direction the driver will take. However, the Vienna Convention sti[CENSORED]tes that only the driver is able to activate these warning lights. This automatic device should therefore not be available from us, except for a surprising turnaround.