Peugeot has announced its decision to outfit an initial car model with a rectangular steering wheel by 2026 according to a Friday statement by the company’s product head, Jérôme Micheron.
Baptised Hypersquare, a prototype of the steering wheel is currently on display on the concept car showcased at the Parisian tech event Vivatech. This "steer by wire" technology supersedes the conventional steering column, which mechanically connects the steering wheel to the wheels, instead favouring electronic connections.
Peugeot, already known for its notably small steering wheels, aims to introduce this on a series car in 2026, marking the start of its product range’s renewal. Furthermore, Micheron told AFP that the feature "will mark all future models developed by Peugeot".
"This steering wheel can be controlled with just 150° movements. It requires less effort and retains a sense of agility”, Micheron adds, saying it lends a "techno" touch to the model. Drivers adapt quickly to this system, according to the automaker after several tests with its customers.
The steering wheel design incorporates four spaces for buttons with functions such as cruise control, while the indicators remain in their usual position, behind the wheel. An electronic system redundancy assures the steering won’t cut out in case of an issue.
Peugeot has not disclosed which supplier is assisting in the development of the steering wheel, although several suppliers, including German firms ZF and Schaeffler, are believed to be investing heavily in this rapidly advancing technology.
