Paddle shifters on cars: Why are they rarely used despite being very useful?
Paddle shifters behind the steering wheel are equipped on many current car models from high-end to popular, although very useful, Vietnamese people rarely use them.
Paddle shifters on the steering wheel help drivers actively adjust gears, providing better control in certain 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 are only useful when needing to accelerate quickly, go downhill or drive 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 need to accelerate, using the paddle shifters still helps the driver drive more safely and effectively.
