Why Most Cars Have Round Steering Wheels
Have you ever wondered why almost all steering wheels in cars are round? In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this design choice and how it has stood the test of time, even as technology brings new innovations like electric vehicles and autonomous driving into the automotive landscape.
Historical Context and Safety
Round steering wheels are not just a random design choice. They have been the standard for decades because of their inherent advantages in safety and usability. A round shape allows the steering wheel to spin freely when not in use, minimizing the risk of injury during accidents. Back in the early days of automobile driving, when seat belts were not a standard feature, being impaled on a sharp cornered steering wheel could be a fatal outcome during collisions.
Even with the introduction of seat belts, there is still a potential risk of injury from a cornered steering wheel. Rounded shapes like ovals or circles are safer because they do not have sharp edges projecting towards the driver, making them less likely to cause injury in an accident.
User Comfort and Ergonomics
Rounding the steering wheel is not just about safety; it also enhances user comfort and ergonomics. Let's consider a few examples to illustrate this point.
1. Early Cars and Pedals
Early cars often had three pedals for two feet, making the steering with one leg on each side a necessity. This arrangement left little room for the steering wheel. As car designs evolved, the placement of pedals changed, becoming more ergonomic for modern driving. For instance, with the two pedals spaced differently, using one foot on the brake and another on the accelerator, a more comfortable and natural position for the steering wheel was achieved. This is why many modern steering wheels have a flattened bottom, allowing for better accessibility, especially for larger individuals.
2. Ferrari Roma and McLaren P1
Ferrari and McLaren, renowned for their high-performance sports cars, often innovate in design. The flat-bottomed steering wheel is a common feature in many of their models. In the case of the Ferrari Roma and McLaren P1, the steering wheel is designed to offer a wider range of motion and better control during sharp turns and high-speed driving. This ergonomic design helps drivers maintain focus and control without compromising on performance.
The Self-Centering Feature
Around shape also provides a practical benefit in terms of self-centering. When you wind the steering wheel to full lock, it can spin freely around your fingers until it self-centers. This self-centering property is particularly useful in situations where you need to quickly adjust the steering back to center, such as recovering from a corner or dealing with potential pendulum oversteer. For those who prefer a round steering wheel, even modern electric vehicles like the Tesla Plaid, which completely eliminates the traditional steering wheel, will likely encounter its limitations and discomfort.
Potential Innovations
As we look towards the future, the landscape of automotive design is changing, particularly with the advent of autonomous vehicles. The new Peugeot E-legend, for example, features a sliding away steering wheel, signifying a shift away from the traditional fixed design. However, many drivers still prefer the round steering wheel for its intuitive and reliable self-centering feature.
While innovation and new technologies might change the form of the steering wheel, the round shape remains a tried-and-true design choice for its inherent benefits. Moreover, the self-centering feature of a round steering wheel continues to enhance driver comfort and vehicle control in a wide variety of driving conditions.