A steering robot for operating a steering wheel of a test automobile is disclosed. The robot includes an actuator mounted to the automobile, and an electromechanical connector that detachably connects the actuator to the steering wheel. A steering processor is connected to the actuator and to the electromechanical connector, and the steering processor (1) actuates the actuator, thereby operating the steering wheel when the actuator is connected to the steering wheel by way of the electromechanical connector; and (2) actuates the electromechanical connector, thereby disconnecting the actuator from the steering wheel.