In a surprising turn of events, driving schools in Norway are reportedly steering clear of using new Tesla vehicles, specifically the Model 3, as instruction cars. The decision stems from concerns raised about the unconventional design of Tesla’s steering wheel, which lacks the traditional indicator lever.
Steering Concerns: A Roadblock for Tesla in Norway
The ban on Tesla Model 3 as instruction cars in Norway comes after driving instructors expressed apprehensions about the unique design of the steering wheel. The Model 3, along with Tesla’s larger models, the S and X, replaces the traditional indicator lever with two buttons embedded in the steering wheel. This design choice, expected to extend to the Model Y as well, has raised red flags among Norwegian driving schools.
Testing Troubles: The Unease of Driving Instructors
Jåhn Hansen Øyen, owner of the Harstad Traffic School, initially considered adopting Tesla as an all-electric option for his school. However, after personally testing the Model 3, Øyen expressed unease, stating, “I noticed that I lost both focus and direction in roundabouts. It is not directly life-threatening, but you run the risk of both driving on curbs and other cars if there are two lanes.”
The concerns extend beyond experienced drivers, as a forum of 3,000 driving instructors echoed worries that students, particularly young and inexperienced drivers, would find it challenging to operate the turn signals, especially when navigating roundabouts.
Official Backing for Concerns: National Roads Administration Weighs In
According to Øyen, the National Roads Administration supported the worries of driving instructors, emphasizing the importance of signaling during a driving test. Lars-Inge Haslie, a senior adviser in the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, stated, “Not being able to give signs… is not satisfactory. It can be a basis for dangerous traffic situations and can be fined as a violation of the traffic rules.”
The situation poses questions about the evaluation of students during their driving tests if they struggle with using turn signals due to the unconventional steering wheel design. Haslie believes this may lead to situations where agreements must be made before the test, potentially violating traffic rules.
Implications for Tesla: Navigating Challenges in Scandinavia
This development adds another layer of complexity for Tesla, which is already grappling with resolving another pressing issue in the Scandinavian region.
