Tesla unveils refreshed Model S complete with an airplane-like steering wheel

You can still do a three-point turn with your hands at the 3 and 9 (where they should be). Instead of crossing your hands over the top of the wheel, drivers will need to re-train themselves to guide the wheel while keeping hands at the 3 and 9 like this: https://i.makeagif.com/media/6-08-2017/239ulB.gif

The problem that this wheel spotlights is that (too) many people drive with their hand or hands at the 12 o'clock position. This can be extremely dangerous when you need to swerve quickly (to avoid an obstacle) as having one's hand there not only increases the turn radius well over what's usually required to overcome the hurdle, but it also reduces steering control. This creates a negative feedback loop wherein the driver makes extreme steering decisions to counteract the perceived loss of control, which exacerbates impact when the accident finally occurs.

Auto makers doubled down on this by adding premium materials to that part of the wheel specifically to provide a nicer, luxury-feeling surface for the driver's hand. Instead, Tesla is tapping their inner Apple courage by removing that part of the wheel altogether (to both give drivers more view over their horizon and to force drivers to steer properly or use Auto-Steer more often if this isn't preferred).

Tesla is also doubling-down on FSD with this approach as they are finally giving drivers a wheel that is commensurate with their "Autopilot" tech.

I applaud Tesla for taking this approach with the steering wheel. I wish I could upgrade my Model 3 to have this!