Toyota's NEO Steer Yoke Gets Rid Of Pedals Entirely - And It Actually Works

Toyota stood by its «Mobility for All» philosophy at this year's Japan Mobility Show. Amid the new vehicles and radical concepts at the show, we found the new NEO Steer concept. The wild yoke steering wheel made its debut a few days before the show, but we didn't know exactly what it was for. Now we know more, and it's brilliant.

Based on a motorcycle handlebar, the NEO Steer incorporates driving controls (accelerating and braking) on the steering wheel. While Toyota is not the first automaker to toy with this idea, it's the first to make the concept feel seamless and natural.

We put the NEO Steer concept to the test in Japan (albeit on Gran Turismo 7), and frankly, I couldn't help but think about how it revolutionizes driving for those who are physically unable to drive like the rest of us. And we're not just talking about people with disabilities. Even an average Joe with a broken leg will benefit from a system like this.

Before using NEO Steer at the show, I didn't need a crash course on how to use the steering wheel. The accelerator is on the right-hand side, with the thumb used to control the «throttle,» modulated in a twisting motion. Both hands control the brakes, like on a bicycle or motorcycle. They aren't hard to modulate; even lifting your thumb off the throttle already simulates engine braking.

Of course, it helps that I know how to ride a motorcycle. Still, most people won't have any difficulty mastering these controls, given their basic design and integration onto the yoke-ish tiller. I even used it on a simulated high-speed drive on Gran Turismo 7, showcasing its future in motorsports when developed further.

It's unclear when and if Toyota will introduce NEO Steer into production vehicles, but obviously, this isn't just for gaming.

As most major controls are controlled by a computer in modern cars, and especially in electric vehicles, it wouldn't be that hard to implement. Toyota is working on a host of electric vehicles, and this could easily be added as an optional extra. It will allow paraplegic enthusiasts to enjoy possible upcoming electric sports cars like the Toyota FT-Se.

It may also be the reason why Toyota delayed the yoke steering wheel