The evolution of steering wheels and what has changed over time

Unlike other parts of the vehicle, the steering wheel is the only detail which is in direct contact with a driver all the time. The requirements imposed on it range from the functional to the aesthetic components. However, which steering wheel is the best one? In this article, we seek to answer this question and tell you everything about the steering wheels.

• How it all started

The well-known round steering wheel, which replaced the steering lever, appeared at the end of the 19th century. It proved to be the most effective means of transmitting muscular force to the wheels of a vehicle in order to change the direction of motion. The purpose of the steering wheel is, above all, to make the whole process of driving easier and more comfortable for a driver, and consequently, for a passenger's safety. So it's worth paying attention to the diameter of the steering wheel which also changed a lot. In the 1960s sports cars were the trend-setters, making narrow steering wheels popular. AMG parts were considered to be among the best, especially Mercedes steering wheel, which came to be used in the production of passenger cars.

• Design principles for steering wheels

In fact, the material from which the rim is made also makes a significant difference. There's no denying that polished wood or bone steering wheels look sophisticated and rich. However, as a compromise, and in order to underline the elegance of the car, sometimes combined steering wheels are used, such as leather steering wheels with wooden inlays or suede ones like Maybach steering wheels or Benz steering wheels. Due to the fact that the leather steering wheel is perforated, the hands are less likely to sweat. Suede, on the other hand, is also great looking material, but it's more maintenance-intensive as it gets dirty quicker.

• Evolution of the steering wheel shape

Over the years, in addition to the materials used to make the steering wheel, the design and shape has undoubtedly evolved as well. Although the classic shape of the steering wheel is recognized to be a circle, there have been many attempts to introduce oval and even square models, as well as aircraft steering wheels and joysticks. However, these ideas did not take hold. Instead, a steering wheel with a truncated underside came into fashion. This is not so much justified from an aesthetic point of view, as from a practical one. Particularly for tight cars, where such a configuration helps to get additional space.

• Functionality of the modern steering wheel

Nowadays, the steering wheel is becoming more and more versatile. The buttons on the steering wheel can now be used to implement various operating functions. Modern drivers don't need to take their hands off the steering wheel in order to answer the phone. This is what the Mercedes steering wheel upgrade is all about; in addition to the buzzer, the steering wheel now is equipped with volume, call answer, seat position adjustment and windshield water supply buttons.

• Customize your steering wheel

Certainly, there are plenty of design options. Generally two trends can be distinguished: exclusivity and sportiness. The first one is characterized by an abundance of buttons and noble materials. The second one is marked by push-button minimalism. Today, drivers have a possibility to customize their steering wheel or replace it with the one they like most of all. Thus, you can get this legendary Mercedes benz steering wheel with an unusual wooden trim. We highly recommend considering buying Mercedes Benz steering wheels that are now the worldwide standard. They are designed in several variants, each matching a specific vehicle model. These variables affect their style, size and position, as well as how the capacitive controls will be positioned.

Remember that the steering wheel is an extremely important component which is constantly in your hands, so it is important to choose the one which feels good and comfortable to use.