Tesla recently launched updated versions of the model S saloon and model X SUV, both of which feature U-shaped flight yokes in place of conventional steering wheels.
When Tesla released the first images of the cars’ interiors, lots of questioned the legality of the firm’s unusual new steering wheel. However, the department for carry has considering that declared the design legal.
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The Sunday Times contacted DfT for an official action – and the department supplied a single line statement which read: “The guidelines relating to steering equipment (UN-ECE guideline 79) does not stipulate any shape or size of the steering wheel.”
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UK guidelines indicate that a car’s steering equipment could be anything – a wheel, a joystick, a handlebar or Tesla’s unusual new flight yoke – and still remain legal, supplying the system can be used to maintain control of the automobile and meet UK MOT standards for excessive play or movement.
Despite this legislative triumph for Tesla, the company could soon fall foul of a different road traffic law which prevents the motorist from checking out media devices while the automobile is in motion.
When Tesla unveiled the updated model S and model X, the brand also announced a new feature for their infotainment systems called the “Tesla Arcade.” The company says its most current touchscreen has enough processing power to run modern video games – and that “wireless controller compatibility allows gaming from any seat.”
A DfT spokesperson also told the Sunday Times: “By law, motorists can only use screens when checking out driving information related to the state of the automobile or its equipment, when navigation is displayed, or when assisting in checking out the road around the vehicle. Under the road automobiles (Constriction and Use) regulations, screens used for anything else must not be visible to the motorist while the automobile is being driven.”
That indicates that, even if it’s the front passenger who’s playing the video game, it would be illegal while the automobile was in motion as the screen is within the driver’s eyeline. However, rear seat passengers would legally be allowed to use the extra screen on the rear of the centre console for gaming – even when the automobile was moving.
It’s worth noting that the infotainment systems on current Tesla models can be used to enjoy TV and online streaming services – but the system becomes unavailable when the automobiles are in motion. Tesla will likely introduce a similar system for video game access.
Now read all the current news on the updated Tesla model S. let us know your thoughts in the comments section below…