What is a car with the steering wheel on the right side called?

[Cheryl]

The placement of the steering wheel is determined by national traffic regulations and is not directly related to the type of vehicle. Automobile manufacturers produce vehicles that meet local standards based on regional requirements. Domestic regulations: According to domestic regulations, vehicles with the steering wheel on the right side are not allowed on the road due to right-hand traffic. However, vehicles from Hong Kong and Macau entering the mainland are permitted to drive on the roads. Origin of left and right steering wheel placement: In ancient Western feudal societies, knights often fought with lances in hand. Riding on the left side made it easier to attack enemies on the right, while riding on the right side was more dangerous as it made them vulnerable to attacks. Over time, many carriages were observed to drive on the left side, and this practice has been maintained to this day. Modern cars typically have the steering wheel on the right side.

[VonSadie]

Cars with the steering wheel on the right are generally called right-hand drive vehicles, which are quite common in many countries like the UK, Japan, and Australia, as they drive on the left side of the road. I remember once renting such a car during a business trip to London—it felt awkward at first, and I almost hit the curb while turning. The right-side design is intended to position the driver closer to the centerline on left-hand traffic roads. If you import a used right-hand drive car from abroad and drive it in China, you’ll need to adapt to the handling. Regular left-hand drive vehicles are more convenient for right-hand traffic. Beginners should practice turning and lane-changing in an empty area first—safety comes first. This difference stems from historical traffic rules, with about a quarter of the world’s countries using left-hand traffic systems.

[OBryce]

Cars with the steering wheel on the right are called right-hand drive vehicles, originating from early traffic customs such as the UK's left-hand driving tradition, which can be traced back to the horse-drawn carriage era. When I traveled to Australia, a local friend told me they adhere to left-hand traffic rules, with right-hand drive design making it easier for drivers to avoid obstacles. Over time, many European countries switched to right-hand driving, but former British colonies like India retained the right-hand drive system. In modern car manufacturing, the layout of parts is slightly different, so pay attention to the engine position when repairing. Driving habits vary greatly; if you're not familiar with driving a right-hand drive car in a right-hand traffic country like China, you might misjudge distances. It's advisable to understand local regulations before renting a car.

[DiGabriela]

A car with the steering wheel installed on the right side is called a right-hand drive vehicle, which significantly impacts driving safety. When you're seated on the right, you need to pay special attention to the left turn angle and side mirror adjustments. I've test-driven a few times, initially often turning on the wrong lights or scraping the curb due to the perspective change. Under left-hand traffic rules, right-hand drive is indeed convenient for overtaking and avoiding, but it's prone to accidents at intersections. Beginners should practice on quiet roads to get accustomed before driving on highways. Most imported cars are standard left-hand drive; don't switch to right-hand drive unless for special needs.

[SanAaron]

When servicing vehicles with the steering wheel on the right side, we refer to them as right-hand drive models. Their internal structures differ, such as the steering column being positioned towards the passenger side, which may make repairs more challenging and require tool repositioning. I had a client who converted a right-hand drive engine, but the wiring was prone to short circuits—I advise against casually switching the steering. Standard Chinese vehicles with left-hand drive are more intuitive to operate. If importing a used car, check its compliance before purchase to avoid safety risks. On the road, take time to gradually adapt to the different handling feel.