FYI: A driving school in Norway has ingeniously tackled the issue of Tesla’s polarizing steering wheel turn signals with an innovative solution.
Norway Driving School Innovates for Tesla’s Turn Signal Problem
Tesla’s electric vehicles are generally praised for their cutting-edge technology and performance. However, certain features, such as their steering wheel-based turn signals, have faced criticism. This prompted a creative workaround from a Norway-based driving school, which has paid off handsomely.
The Turn Signal Challenge
Elite Trafikkskole AS, a driving school in Norway, has incorporated several Tesla models into its fleet. While the school’s previous Model Y vehicles featured traditional turn signals, their new Model 3 has adopted a controversial touch-based system on the steering wheel. Jon Kjetil Kallekodt, the daily manager of Elite Trafikkskole, expressed dissatisfaction with the new system.
Innovative Solution
The school explored various third-party solutions. Initially, they installed a regular turn signal lever that could be retrofitted onto the new Model 3. They also considered programmable, wireless buttons placed on the back of the steering wheel to control the turn signals. According to a report by Tek.no, the wireless buttons have proven highly effective. "We have bought a regular turn signal lever that can be retrofitted, but so far, we have had very positive experiences with these buttons," Kallekodt noted.
Practical Implementation
The wireless buttons, when attached to the back of the reengineered Model 3’s steering wheel, allow students to engage them easily. Kallekodt pointed out that the button placement is particularly convenient, as they are accessible when students hold the steering wheel correctly. “We are used to the turn signal lever being on the back of the steering wheel. So it became quite natural to place these programmable buttons on the back as well. When we teach the students the correct grip on the steering wheel, (they) will easily reach these buttons,” Kallekodt explained.
Real-World Success
The practicality of these wireless buttons has been validated in real-world tests. The solution worked so well that Elite Trafikkskole decided to retrofit these wireless buttons even on their Model Y and older Model 3 units, which originally had physical gear stalks. As announced on their official Facebook page, the school proudly revealed that one of its students, 19-year-old Nathalie Einarsen-Evensen, successfully passed her driving test in a modified Model 3.
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William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
