Tesla has raised the price of the Yoke steering wheel option for the Model S and Model X by $1,000, according to the company’s online configurator. The Yoke steering wheel has been a topic of controversy since its introduction in 2021, as it became the only choice for newly configured cars, while the traditional round steering wheel was not available. However, due to complaints about the Yoke’s lack of practicality, especially at low speeds, Tesla introduced a round steering wheel as the standard option in January 2023, making the Yoke available as a no-cost option.
In March, Tesla offered a retrofit campaign where owners of Yoke-equipped vehicles could have a round steering wheel installed at a service center for $700. A month later, the Yoke became a paid option priced at $250, and now it has been increased to $1,000.
Tesla’s pricing and options availability have been undergoing frequent changes recently. In just a week, the company lowered the price of its Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature, removed the Standard Range trim for the Model S and Model X, launched the refreshed Model 3, added the “Autosteer on City Streets” function to the FSD system, and made all paint options for the Model S and Model X free.
As for the future of the Yoke steering wheel, Tesla is reportedly working on an updated version with improved materials and a shape that combines elements of a traditional wheel and the current Yoke design, without the cutout at the top.
Readers are encouraged to share their opinions on these changes in the comments section.
Price of Tesla Yoke Steering Wheel Raised to $1,000
Tesla, the renowned electric vehicle manufacturer, recently announced that the price of their revolutionary yoke steering wheel will be raised to $1,000. This decision has sparked debate among industry experts and Tesla enthusiasts, evoking mixed opinions regarding the necessity and value of this high-priced add-on.
The yoke steering wheel, first introduced in the refreshed Model S and Model X, represents a significant departure from the traditional circular steering wheel design seen in most vehicles. Its unique shape, resembling the yoke of an aircraft, has garnered attention for its futuristic aesthetics and potential benefits in terms of handling and ergonomics.
However, Tesla enthusiasts have expressed concerns over the steep increase in price for this option, which was initially priced at $0 during the vehicle’s initial release. Critics argue that the $1,000 price tag may discourage potential buyers from incorporating this advanced steering system into their vehicles, reducing the overall adoption rate.
Proponents of this price increase, on the other hand, highlight several reasons why the yoke steering wheel justifies its elevated cost. Firstly, the yoke’s unique design integrates a series of touch-sensitive buttons, enabling drivers to manage various functions without having to remove their hands from the wheel. This feature aligns with Tesla’s focus on improving safety and reducing distractions, making it a valuable addition for safety-conscious consumers.
Furthermore, Tesla enthusiasts believe that the price increase reflects the high production costs associated with manufacturing these advanced steering systems. Tesla, known for pushing the boundaries of innovation, invests significantly in research and development to create groundbreaking automotive technologies. Thus, the inflated price may partly represent the investment incurred in designing and implementing the yoke steering wheel.
Tesla’s decision to raise the price of the yoke steering wheel coincides with the company’s continuous effort to introduce cutting-edge features and set new industry standards. It is worth noting that this isn’t the first instance in which Tesla has faced criticism or controversy over pricing decisions. The brand is known for offering add-ons that come with additional costs – a strategy employed to maintain exclusivity and cater to customers who place a premium on innovative features.
In the larger context of the electric vehicle market, the price increase of the yoke steering wheel should also be considered against the backdrop of increasing competition. As more automakers venture into the electric vehicle space and introduce their own cutting-edge technologies, Tesla faces the challenge of staying ahead and differentiating itself. By offering unique features like the yoke steering wheel, Tesla aims to maintain its reputation as a trailblazer in the field of electric vehicles.
In conclusion, Tesla’s decision to raise the price of its yoke steering wheel to $1,000 has sparked discussion within the automotive industry. While critics point to the potential deterrent effect this elevated price may have on consumer adoption, Tesla supporters argue that the added cost reflects the advanced technology and design features associated with the yoke wheel. Only time will tell if this pricing decision proves successful for Tesla in maintaining its competitive edge and attracting customers who appreciate the blend of innovation and style that has come to define the brand.