Tesla has recently increased the price of its Yoke steering wheel option for the Model S and Model X by $1,000, as indicated by the company’s online configurator. This move comes as part of Tesla’s ongoing adjustments to its pricing and options availability.
The Yoke steering wheel first garnered attention when it was introduced in 2021 as part of the refresh for Tesla’s two flagship electric vehicles. Initially, it was the sole choice for newly configured cars, with the traditional round steering wheel conspicuously absent from the options list.
See also: Tesla Cybertruck May Offer Optional Round Steering Wheel Alongside Hybrid Yoke
However, in response to customer feedback regarding the Yoke’s impracticality, particularly at lower speeds, Tesla made significant changes. In January 2023, the round steering wheel was reintroduced as the standard specification for the Model S and Model X, with the Yoke being offered as a no-cost option.
NEWS: Tesla has increased the price of the Yoke for the Model S and Model X to $1,000 (from $250). pic.twitter.com/pFfjKjEavv
— Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) September 6, 2023
Subsequently, in March of the same year, Tesla conducted a brief retrofit campaign, enabling owners of Yoke-equipped vehicles to have a round steering wheel installed at a Tesla service center for a fee of $700. A month later, the Yoke option transitioned to a $250 paid upgrade, and now it stands at $1,000.
See also: Lexus Has Found a Better Steer Yoke Formula Than Tesla
These frequent alterations to pricing and options are part of Tesla’s evolving strategy, which has become increasingly intricate and challenging for consumers to track. In just one week, the company reduced the price of its Full Self-Driving (FSD) package, eliminated the Standard Range trim for the Model S and Model X, made significant reductions to their Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRPs), launched an updated Model 3, introduced the “Autosteer on City Streets” feature to its Full Self-Driving system, and made all paint options for the Model S and Model X complimentary.
Regarding the future of the Yoke steering wheel, reports suggest that the electric vehicle manufacturer is actively developing an updated version. This new iteration is expected to feature improved materials and a design that combines elements of a conventional steering wheel with the distinctive jet fighter-like Yoke, minus the cutout at the top.
