Race cars often serve as a testing ground for new technologies that eventually make their way into our everyday vehicles. One such technology is steering wheel shift lights, which have been a common feature in high-performance vehicles like Ferrari and McLaren. Hyundai, however, is looking to simplify the assembly process of these shift lights and bring them to a wider range of vehicles.
Hyundai recently filed a patent outlining a new assembly process for steering wheel-mounted shift lights. The patent describes a new structure for the wheel that includes a cutout at the top for the lights and a groove inside for the wiring. This new design not only simplifies the production process but also lowers the overall cost, making it more accessible for multiple models.
While it’s still uncertain if this new steering wheel design will actually go into production, Hyundai’s new Magma performance sub-brand could greatly benefit from such a feature. Having shift lights on the steering wheel would not only enhance the performance image of Hyundai’s vehicles but also show that the company is serious about offering fun-to-drive cars, even if they are not direct competitors to higher-end brands like BMW M or Mercedes-AMG.
The integration of shift lights into Hyundai vehicles could potentially attract performance-oriented consumers who are looking for that extra racing-inspired touch in their cars. It would also set Hyundai apart from other mainstream brands that have yet to incorporate this technology into their vehicles.
Overall, Hyundai’s new patent for steering wheel-mounted shift lights has the potential to enhance the driving experience of its vehicles and further establish the brand as a player in the performance car market. As we wait to see if this new technology will become a reality, it’s exciting to see Hyundai pushing the boundaries and exploring new ways to elevate the driving experience for its customers.