The four most important aspects of the steering wheel are:ĭistance from the driver – The steering wheel is a tool of leverage. Controls that are awkward to reach or difficult to operate will distract the driver/co-driver and potentially result in more driving mistakes. Vehicle controls should be within a comfortable reach of the driver (and co-driver if applicable) and be comfortable to operate.
To minimize CG height to optimize handling.To enable easy visual access to gauges and other visual feedback in the forward looking line of sight.Ideally the side mirrors should be far enough forward to enable direct viewing by a driver glancing at them. To enable the driver to adequately see the side mirrors in their peripheral vision (At a minimum) so that the driver need not continuously take their eyes off the road ahead to gauge an opponent’s position behind them.To provide a position of comfortable leverage for the driver so they do not become tired due to operating the controls from an awkward position.To enable the driver (and co-driver) to see clearly ahead and beside themselves through standard and peripheral vision.The design goals of the seating position are:
