What cars have a yoke steering wheel?
In current production cars, the yoke steering wheel is rare and best known on Tesla’s models. The primary production cars that ship with a true yoke are the Tesla Model S and Model X (2021 refresh onward).
Beyond that, most vehicles use traditional round steering wheels, and yoke designs have so far remained a niche feature. This piece explains what a yoke is, which production cars currently use it, and what drivers should know about the design and its adoption in the market.
What is a yoke steering wheel?
A yoke is a flattened, rectangular or U-shaped steering control that resembles the cockpit controls of an aircraft more than a conventional round wheel. It typically lacks a full circular rim and may mount in a way that provides a different field of view for the instrument cluster. Proponents argue it can reduce grip height and improve visibility of gauges; critics point to learning curve, hand-positioning challenges, and potential safety/regulatory questions in certain regions.
Current production cars with a yoke
Below are the production models that have shipped with a true yoke steering wheel in recent years. Note that availability can vary by market and model year.
- Tesla Model S (2021 refresh onward)
- Tesla Model X (2021 refresh onward)
In practice, these two Tesla models constitute the core of mainstream production cars currently offered with a yoke steering wheel. Other manufacturers have shown concept cars or limited runs experimenting with yokes, but they have not entered broad production in the same way.
Why the market hasn’t widely adopted the yoke
Design and safety considerations are central to the debate. Regulators in some regions require standard steering wheel configurations for airbags, occupant protection, and driver-assistance systems integration. Manufacturers must balance novel ergonomics with global compliance, insurance implications, and consumer familiarity. As a result, the yoke remains a niche feature rather than a broad trend.
Driving experience and safety considerations
Drivers report mixed experiences: some praise the improved forward visibility and modern aesthetic, while others note a learning curve for precise hand placement and for small steering corrections at high speed. Automated safety features and lane-keeping assist may be implemented differently with a yoke, depending on the system design.
Alternatives for enthusiasts
For enthusiasts who want a yoke-style feel in a non-Tesla vehicle, there are aftermarket options and adapters, but these can affect safety, warranty, and airbag function. Such modifications are not universally legal or recommended, especially for contributing to safety-critical systems like airbags and steering torque sensors.
What to expect going forward
Automakers continue to experiment with interiors and control styles to differentiate products. Whether the yoke becomes more widespread will depend on regulatory clarity, consumer demand, and how quickly drivers adapt to the unique ergonomics. For now, Tesla remains the primary mass-market producer offering a true yoke steering wheel in its mainstream models.
Summary
As of today, the only mainstream production cars widely shipping with a yoke steering wheel are the Tesla Model S and Model X (2021 refresh onward). Other brands have explored the concept through concept cars or limited runs, but none have matched Tesla’s breadth in production. The decision to adopt a yoke involves trade-offs in visibility, control feel, regulatory compliance, and user education. For most buyers, a traditional round steering wheel remains the standard.
Did Tesla discontinue the yolk?
Tesla has discontinued offering the yoke steering wheel as the standard option for the base Model S and Model X. Customers who want a yoke will now have to opt for the Plaid version. The base models now come standard with a traditional round steering wheel.
Which cars have rack-and-pinion steering?
What types of vehicles use rack and pinion steering systems?
- Small and compact cars. Small cars and compact cars are the most common types of vehicles that use rack and pinion steering systems.
- Mid-size sedans.
- Sports sedans and sports cars.
- SUV and crossover models.
- Light trucks.
Which cars have a yoke steering wheel?
The Tesla yoke steering wheel has gained popularity on the Model 3 and Model Y due to its futuristic design and unique driving experience. Unlike the traditional steering wheel, the yoke offers a more open cockpit and enhanced visibility, appealing to those seeking a modern touch in their driving routine.
Which cars have steer by wire technology?
Production electric vehicles
- Rolls-Royce Spectre.
- Lotus Eletre.
- GMC Hummer EV.
- Chevrolet Silverado EV.
