Paddle shifters on cars: Why are they rarely used despite being very useful?
Paddle shifters behind the steering wheel are equipped on many car models today from high-end to popular, although very useful, Vietnamese people rarely use them.
The paddle shifters on the steering wheel help the driver actively adjust the gear, giving better control in some driving situations. Previously, this equipment only appeared on sports cars but is now popular on many popular car models. However, most drivers still do not take advantage of this equipment.
In Vietnam, most drivers drive automatic cars in urban areas, so letting the transmission shift automatically according to speed is more comfortable and leisurely. Meanwhile, the paddle shifters only come into play when needing to accelerate quickly, going downhill or driving on steep roads.
Furthermore, many popular car models are equipped with small-capacity engines and automatic transmissions that have a certain delay. Therefore, the experience with the paddle shifters is difficult to bring the same excitement as on sports cars.
Although it has become a popular equipment, the paddle shifters are not really useful in current traffic conditions. However, in some situations where it is necessary to control speed when going downhill or needing to accelerate, using the paddle shifters still helps the driver drive more safely and effectively.
