This Square ‘Steering Wheel’ Could Only Work With Steer-by-Wire

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Peugeot has shown the E-T16 Concept, a performance-focused electric hatchback with a square steering control called the Hypersquare. Its shape depends on steer-by-wire, which sends driver inputs to a computer rather than through a conventional mechanical steering column. Peugeot’s claims about performance and ergonomics remain unverified in production driving.

Peugeot has presented the E-T16 Concept, a performance-focused electric hatchback whose square Hypersquare steering control is designed around steer-by-wire technology. The concept, shown at the 2026 Paris Motor Show, illustrates how electronic steering can allow a control that does not need to turn through the wide range of motion expected from a conventional steering wheel.

The Hypersquare is a compact, square-shaped steering control with buttons and a configurable display in its center. Peugeot says the screen can show information such as speed and lap timing, while controls are positioned for access with a finger movement. The automaker describes the setup as a performance-oriented configuration of its steer-by-wire system.

In a conventional car, a steering wheel turns a physical column and rack connected to the front wheels. The driver typically rotates the wheel through multiple turns from lock to lock. With steer-by-wire, electronic signals convey steering inputs to a computer, which directs motors to turn the wheels. Software can vary the steering ratio, so a small hand movement may produce a larger response at low speeds and a more measured response on faster roads.

Peugeot describes the E-T16 as a tri-motor electric hatchback and says it can complete three laps of the Nürburgring Nordschleife—more than 60 kilometers—in Performance mode without power limitation. That is a claim in the automaker’s release, not an independently verified result. The E-T16 is a concept, and the source material does not provide a production timetable or confirmed specifications for a retail model.

Why the Square Control Needs Software

The Hypersquare’s shape is not just a styling change: it depends on steering that does not require the driver to rotate a wheel through the full mechanical range. That distinction helps explain why a square control could be usable in a way that a squared-off conventional wheel might not be. Steer-by-wire makes the design possible by letting software adjust how hand movement translates into wheel movement.

The approach could also change how drivers interact with steering and nearby controls. Peugeot says the Hypersquare brings key functions within easy finger reach, but the source material does not include independent testing of its ergonomics or a driving evaluation. A central question is how the system feels: without a direct mechanical connection, steering feedback must be generated electronically. Whether drivers find that response natural remains unsettled.

From Mechanical Wheels to Wire

The concept’s steering approach addresses a limitation of conventional steering controls: a mechanical steering wheel needs enough rim for drivers to grip while turning it repeatedly. The source report contrasts that arrangement with the Tesla yoke, which retains conventional steering underneath despite removing the top of the wheel. That mismatch drew criticism from drivers who still needed to move their hands around the control.

Steer-by-wire is not new, according to the report, which identifies the Tesla Cybertruck and Lexus RZ as vehicles offering the technology. Peugeot has also shown the Hypersquare on other concepts, including the Polygon, the report says. The E-T16 therefore serves as another demonstration of the company’s design direction, rather than evidence that the square control is ready for a production car.

“The Hypersquare® integrates a configurable central display showing essential information such as speed and lap timing according to driving conditions.”

— Peugeot, in its description of the E-T16 Concept

Questions Beyond the Concept

Peugeot has not, in the supplied material, said whether the E-T16 will enter production, what its final specifications would be, or when a buyer might be able to drive one. The concept’s claimed Nürburgring performance has not been independently verified in the source report.

It is also unclear how the Hypersquare feels in use. The report says a demonstration unit was expected at the show, but provides no results from a hands-on demonstration. Peugeot’s claims about precision, agility and ergonomics therefore remain the company’s descriptions. How the system behaves in a production vehicle, including its steering feedback and driver acceptance, is not established here.

Awaiting a Driving Demonstration

The next useful evidence would be a hands-on demonstration or a road test that evaluates the control’s reach, steering response and feedback. Peugeot had a Hypersquare demonstration unit planned for the Paris Motor Show, according to the report; any impressions from that display would be distinct from a test of a finished vehicle.

For now, readers should treat the E-T16 as a concept and the automaker’s performance figures as attributed claims. Peugeot has not confirmed production plans for the hatchback in the supplied material. Further details about whether the technology or control will reach a road-going model remain pending.

Key Questions

What is Peugeot’s Hypersquare?

The Hypersquare is a square-shaped steering control with buttons and a configurable center display, shown in Peugeot’s E-T16 Concept.

Why does the design use steer-by-wire?

Steer-by-wire sends steering inputs electronically to a computer and motors, rather than relying on a direct mechanical connection. That lets the steering ratio vary and means the control need not turn through the range of a conventional wheel.

Is the Peugeot E-T16 going into production?

The supplied report does not say that the E-T16 will enter production or provide a production schedule. It is presented as a concept.

Has Peugeot’s Nürburgring claim been verified?

Peugeot says the concept can complete three Nordschleife laps—more than 60 kilometers—in Performance mode without power limitation. The source material does not provide independent verification.

Source: rss