Tesla has quietly upped the pricing of its controversial steering yoke for the Model S and Model X flagship electric vehicles (EVs) that are now only sold in left-hand drive markets.
Prospective Tesla Model S and Model X owners now have to pay US$1000 (~A$1560) to opt for the cut-down steering yoke, which features touch-sensitive buttons for the indicators, wipers, and headlights instead of stalks.
This wild steering option was originally the standard unit when the updated Model S and Model X were revealed in 2021.
Earlier this year Tesla introduced a new regular steering wheel for these two EVs that’s completely round at no extra cost. The round steering wheel retains the yoke’s touch-sensitive buttons.
The company also introduced a round steering wheel retrofit for Model S and Model X vehicles with the steering yoke, which cost US$700 (~A$1100).
As recently reported, Tesla confirmed the Model S and Model X won’t be launching locally in its current guise. That’s despite the vehicles having not only been sold here in pre-update guise, but also being confirmed and priced in updated guise back in 2021.
Prices were subsequently removed from the local site early in 2022, and then the option to reserve one was removed earlier this year.
“Due to recent changes to the vehicle program, [Model S and Model X] will not be available in Right Hand Drive,” said an email shared with customers who had placed an order for an updated Model S and Model X.
“Unfortunately this means your order is unable to be fulfilled and will be cancelled. You will receive a full refund for any payments made.
“We understand that this may be disappointing news to receive and want to apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
Prospective Model S and Model X customers also received a $3000 credit to go towards a new Model 3 or Model Y order. The credits are limited to one per cancelled order.
The Model S and Model X have been confirmed to return to Europe and China, however Tesla’s UK site also confirms the versions offered there are left-hand drive.
With their recent facelifts, both models gained a new tri-motor Plaid performance flagship, as well as an overhauled interior with a new landscape-oriented infotainment touchscreen and a steering yoke.
MORE: Everything Tesla Model S
MORE: Everything Tesla Model X
