Why are the steering wheels of foreign cars on the right side

[AllisonMarie]

This is because of Napoleon's requirement. Not all foreign cars have steering wheels on the right side. In many countries, the steering wheel is on the left, originating from the habit of carriage drivers sitting on the left and driving on the right. Additional information: 1. Currently, there are two prevailing systems in the world: one is driving on the right side, and the other is driving on the left side. 2. Approximately 90% of countries worldwide practice right-hand traffic, while the remaining countries drive on the left. Initially, when Karl Benz invented the car, the steering wheel was centered. However, based on ergonomic principles, over 90% of people are right-handed. To ensure accurate and safe use of the gearshift and brakes, designers naturally placed the driver's seat on the right. 3. During the carriage era, both people and vehicles in Europe had the habit of driving on the right. When cars were first introduced, most car owners employed drivers. To facilitate the driver opening the door for the owner, early cars naturally had right-hand drive and right-hand traffic. With historical evolution, different countries developed their own unique styles.

[DiErin]

I often travel to the UK for business and notice how many right-hand drive cars there are, a tradition left over from history. Countries like the UK and Japan drive on the left, placing the steering wheel on the right to help drivers observe oncoming traffic more easily and avoid collisions. This tradition dates back to the medieval knight era, when drawing a sword from horseback was easier with the right arm, later becoming a road norm. Today, over 70 countries worldwide follow this design. While adapting when switching cars can be challenging, it becomes quite safe once you're used to it. Driving offers better visibility and reduces blind-spot accidents.

[VonDelilah]

When driving a right-hand drive car, I think this design is mainly to adapt to left-hand traffic conditions. The right-hand steering wheel allows the driver to be closer to the center of the road, providing a better view of the left lane and reducing the risk during overtaking. Historically, Britain led the way, and its colonies followed suit, such as Australia and India, which have continued this practice. Turning or changing lanes feels natural while driving, but one must pay attention to vehicles at entrances and exits, as it's easy to confuse directions. To stay safe, avoid side collisions. Essentially, right-hand drive and left-hand traffic rules are designed to work together and shouldn't be altered arbitrarily.

[OSadie]

I've driven quite a few foreign cars, and the change in steering wheel position can be quite awkward. For example, when renting a car in the UK, the right-hand design is due to left-hand traffic rules, requiring better visibility on the left for the driver. This practice is used in about one-third of countries worldwide, including Singapore and New Zealand. It provides better visibility while driving, reducing blind spots and offering more flexible control. The historical reasons are long-standing, but personally, it just takes some slow adaptation at the beginning.