Paddles

[PhilK]

I've just test driven a C-class automatic with the "paddles" on the steering column. I learnt that the paddles move the gears like with a manual, while the car retains the automatic controls with the tradditional gear-shift look-alike.

The paddles seemed a bit of an odd concept. Why not have them positioned where the automatic control is? It's more natural in a car - most drivers learn were 1st to 4th gears are when they learn to drive.

Then there's no need for the automatic control to be where it is now, trying to look like a manual gear-shift. In US automatics, the automatic controls are classically on the steering column. Makes more sense because the indicator is on the dashboard for Park-neutral-reverse.

If only I designed cars

 

[scumbag]

Its and F1 association things as Motorsport cars have paddle, or steering wheel mounted controls for the gearchange.


In fact I believe a Ferrari first installed this....and some bloke Called Mansell won the first race ever with a car installed with this device...way back in some year known as 1989.....something tells me it was in Brazil too.


it means you can change gear without taking your hands off the steering wheel.

the normal stick auto select is more convienient than the F1 type for engaging Neutral and reverese as it happens.

 

[wemorgan]

PhilK.....2nd post in 5 years.....is this a forum record for time between posts?

 

[renault12ts]

Wait 4 years for answer

 

[wemorgan]

Wait 4 years for answer

Reminds me of Deep Thought........the answer........42