From the images, it emerges that this "peripheral" is designed for self-driving vehicles or in any case assisted by on-board computer. In the photo above, for example, you can see that the perspective of the car appears in the central screen as it performs the main maneuvers on multi-lane roads. This should serve to facilitate user intervention with the appropriate side controls, while the current driving mode is indicated under the screen. One wonders if GM wants to eliminate the windshield in the future, given that the same, wider point of view is usually available through the classic glass.
In the second image, the condition of the vehicle and all are presented instead. the main information about fuel, oil and so on. The fact that they are still shown in the “concept” indicates that the new steering wheel is also aimed at traditional and not just electric vehicles. The presence of tactile controls, together with their arrangement alongside a central screen, brings this wheel closer to portable consoles. But its usefulness is still to be assessed and it remains very difficult for it to be adopted quickly, at least in this form.
Tesla's Yoke steering wheel: an example to follow? An always-on screen in the steering wheel would be a major distraction while driving, and goes against almost all safety regulations. If already with smartphones many are distracted while driving, let alone what could happen with another display in front of their eyes. But Tesla has shown that many rules can be circumvented by creating very original "automotive peripherals". Who knows if General Motors will want to do the same…