AD #2879 – Tesla Updating the Model S & X; FCA & Waymo Expand Partnership; Does Anyone Actually Use Paddle Shifters?
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:03pm
Listen to “AD #2879 – Tesla Updating the Model S and X; FCA and Waymo Expand Partnership; Does Anyone Actually Use Paddle Shifters?” on Spreaker.
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Runtime: 10:19
0:23 Tesla Updating the Model S & X
1:14 Insight into The Tesla & Daimler Partnership
2:35 FCA & Waymo Expand Partnership
3:32 Jeep Renegade & Compass Get Plug-In Hybrids
4:48 Your Dog Could Become the Face of Jeep
5:31 Ford Doubles Production of Bronco First Edition Models
6:09 Toyota Venza Pricing Released
6:59 Lexus Creates World’s First Tattooed Vehicle
8:11 Does Anyone Actually Use Paddle Shifters?
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TESLA UPDATING THE MODEL S & X
Tesla is going to be updating the Model S and X, according to Electrek. It says they’re being updated under a project codenamed Palladium. They’re going to get new battery modules and motors which will improve efficiency and performance, including the Plaid mode that Elon Musk has talked about. Plaid is the next level above Ludicrous, which already provides astounding levels of acceleration. Electrek reports that the S and X could get a styling update, but it’s unclear if that involves new sheet metal or just ornamentation and trim. Though the Model S got a mild front grille change in 2016, the styling of those models have not been updated and sales are falling. New styling could perk up sales again.
INSIGHT INTO THE TESLA & DAIMLER PARTNERSHIP
There’s a fascinating inside report from Reuters of how Tesla and Mercedes-Benz worked together a decade ago. Back in 2009, Daimler, the parent company of Mercedes, bought 10% of Tesla for only $50 million. They sold those shares in 2014 and they must be kicking themselves over that. Those shares would be worth $30 billion today. Daimler invested in Tesla to learn how it operates and to get batteries for the electric version of the Mercedes B-Class. But it sold those shares because it felt that Tesla would not be able to scale up for mass production. During the time they worked together, Mercedes engineers helped Tesla develop the Model S, which could help explain why the car is so good. But Mercedes was shocked at how Tesla would burn through money during product development, whereas Mercedes would strictly adhere to its budget. Here’s our Autoline Insight. This is one of Elon Musk’s great advantages over traditional automakers. He has not had to worry as much about profitability. While Tesla may finally be getting close to being profitable for a full year, for the last decade, it stayed alive mainly by borrowing.
FCA & WAYMO EXPAND PARTNERSHIP
FCA and Waymo have expanded their self-driving partnership to include light commercial vehicles. Waymo will work exclusively with FCA to develop and test autonomous Class 1 through 3 LCVs. Waymo’s Level 4 system will initially be equipped into the Ram ProMaster. In addition to that, the two companies will work on integrating Waymo’s Level 4 autonomous technology across FCA’s lineup. The companies began collaborating in 2016 and since have launched the first commercial autonomous ride-hailing service with Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans.
JEEP RENEGADE & COMPASS GET PLUG-IN HYBRIDS
Jeep revealed plug-in hybrid versions of some of its vehicles at CES this year and now two of them are available for order in Europe. The Renegade and Compass 4xe, which is how Jeep will signify all its electrified models, both feature a 1.3L turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engine that comes in two outputs; 130 horsepower or 180. The engine is paired to a 6-speed automatic and a 60-horsepower electric motor mounted in front of the rear axle, which means all-wheel drive is standard. Zero to 100 km/h is expected to be around 7.5 seconds, which is not all that impressive, but it’s over second faster than any other Renegade or Compass. A 11.4 kWh battery mounted under the 2nd row seats is said to return an average of 50 kilometers of all-electric range, but that’s based on the older NEDC test. If we do a quick conversion that comes to about 21.5 EPA miles. The Renegade and Compass 4xe will still be very off-road capable, even coming in the Trailhawk trim with a number of selectable off-road settings.
YOUR DOG COULD BECOME THE FACE OF JEEP
Speaking of Jeep, your dog could become the face of the brand. It’s asking for people to submit pictures of their dog with any Jeep brand vehicle by August 3rd. Jeep will pick eight photos that fans will have a week to vote on and then announce the top dog on August 26th, which is National Dog Day. It’s kind of funny that we would report about this today. For those of you who don’t know, it’s National Hot Dog Day today in the U.S. Anyway, back to the cute puppies. The winning dog will be used across Jeep’s social media channels for a year. Subaru has had lots of success using dogs in its ads, so maybe Jeep is hoping for the same?
FORD DOUBLES PRODUCTION OF BRONCO FIRST EDITION MODELS
And it might need that success because here’s more proof that fans are going ga-ga for the new Bronco. Ford is doubling production of its First Edition model, which was supposed to be limited to 3,500 examples. Those 2- and 4-door First Editions are pretty well decked out and come with starting prices of nearly $61,000 and $65,000, respectively. Ford told potential customers who already made a reservation for a First Edition model they could cancel it since the vehicle won’t be as exclusive with the doubling of production, but we doubt that will happen.
TOYOTA VENZA PRICING RELEASED
Toyota is getting set to launch the new Venza in the U.S. It’s now hybrid only, and it features a 2.5L four-cylinder engine with three electric motors and all-wheel drive. The setup is expected to deliver 39 MPG combined and it comes standard with Toyota’s suite of driver assistance technologies. Moving to the interior, it’s standard with an 8-inch touchscreen but a 12.3-inch touchscreen is also available. And it’s the first Toyota to offer a fixed panoramic glass roof. Pricing starts just over $33,600, while the top trim starts just under $41,000. The new Venza will be built in Japan and starts arriving at dealerships in the U.S. in September.
WORLD’S FIRST TATTOOED VEHICLE
Lexus is showing off a unique version of its UX crossover. No, that’s not a new camouflage wrap you’re looking at, that design was tattooed onto the car, which the company claims is a world’s first. The vehicle features a koi fish along the entire length of the vehicle, which was created by London tattoo artist Claudia De Sabe. She used a Dremel tool to etch the design instead of her traditional tattooing needle. Car paint was used to fill in the koi design and waves. And gold leaf was also added to give it a bit of a 3D element. The entire project took six months to complete, however the actual tattooing took place over five, eight-hour days. But what do you think, is it a keeper or should Lexus throw it back in the pond?
And coming up next, John will be here with some thoughts on paddle shifters.
DOES ANYONE ACTUALLY USE PADDLE SHIFTERS?
It’s amazing to see how many cars come equipped with paddle shifters these days. My only question is, does anyone actually use them? Paddles shifters are located behind the steering wheel, within easy reach of the fingers on your left and right hand. You can use the paddles to upshift or downshift the transmission as you drive. But when I drive a car with an automatic transmission, I put it in Drive and leave it there. Today’s automatics are so good there’s no need to fuss around with shifting. Now, there are two situations in which I’ll use the paddles: on snowy, icy roads I’ll downshift to use engine compression to slow the car down, and in some cars with dual clutch transmissions you can get a better response by using the paddles because DCT’s don’t have a torque converter. But I probably haven’t used a paddle shifter in over a year and I’ll bet that the vast majority of car buyers never use them. In fact, I’ll bet that a significant number of owners don’t even know what the paddles are for. And so I’ll predict that in a few years paddle shifters will disappear on everything except high performance cars. So let’s do an informal poll here. Does your car have paddle shifters, and do you ever use them?
Did you know that General Motors revived its Defense division? It’s getting back into developing military equipment and just landed a big contract from the Army. It’s going to make what they call the ISV, the Infantry Squad Vehicle, and it has impressive hard-core, off-road capabilities. The chief engineer of GM Defense, Mark Dickens, will be our special guest on Autoline After Hours this Thursday. So join Gary and me for some of the latest developments in the automotive industry.
And with that we wrap up today’s report, thanks for watching.
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Comments (78)
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:17 pm
nope dont use paddle shifters. total waste of real estate for me anyway.
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:17 pm
you qualified your report speculating about paddle shifter use with a mention of performance vehicles. There–in my personal case a 2020 Corvette–they are absolutely essential because of their more immediate response versus the using the accelerator pedal when some gnarly toothed teen pulls astride to hear the pipes or to witness the Corvette’s disappearing act. Lacking a clutch pedal, paddles are absolutely essential features in my opinion. My wife agrees.
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:19 pm
I use my paddle shifters but rarely; they can aid on steep declines and I use mind sometimes when I don’t want the engine to go into autostop or cylinder deactivation. But mostly set it and forget it.
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:23 pm
I have a 2019 Subaru Forester and use my shift paddles frequently, to help slow the vehicle when attempting to pace my speed through traffic-signal controlled traffic. Very handy and work very effectively. Had them previously in a 2014 Mazda6. What a hoot!
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:23 pm
On my previous vehicle I used the paddle shifters daily, but not for a sporty driving experience. My subdivision has a large hill and I used the paddle shifters for engine breaking. You can do the same thing with a gear selector in many cars, but the paddle shifters are much more convenient.
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:25 pm
Paddle Shifters?
In both our 2010 Acura TL SH-AWD and 2016 Acura RDX pretty much the only time I use the flappy paddles is when I am cruising at a steady 30-35 mph in town and either car has not shifted up into top gear, I tap +. If the car’s computer doesn’t like it then it will downshift so no loss.
But did I WANT the paddles? Damn right!
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:27 pm
The only time I ever use the paddle shifters on my Corvette, is if I want to “get on it” fairly hard, like when passing on two lane roads, without it downshifting 3 or 4 gears as it would in drive. If I downshift one two gears with the paddles, I can floor it, and it will stay in the same gear. Then, after a few seconds of backing off to constant speed, it reverts to drive. I never put it in manual mode with the console shifter, because it deactivates cylinder shut off, hurting mpg.
Basically, car companies put the paddles in almost everything, because it is very cheap to do, and it apparently has some advertising value.
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:31 pm
When using cruise control, my ’16 Corvette, and I assume most newer automatic cars, the transmission will downshift on downhills, if necessary, to maintain the set speed.
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:31 pm
Yes. I use my paddle shifters for downhill braking and if I want to squirt into an opening in heavy traffic. Select “Sport” mode, lock it in 1st gear and nail the throttle. My wife doesn’t like it but it gets the job done. 400hp/400lb-ft Lincoln MKZ.
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:32 pm
When on track for the first time with my C6 Corvette they instructed us to leave it in drive; this was introduction to hi-perf driving. I felt very comfortable driving without the need to shift. They also told manual drivers to leave it in fourth gear.
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:33 pm
I use the paddle shifters on my Mazda 3 mainly to control downhill gearing and to drop down a gear or two for passing under light throttle application when the the trans is not recognizing the need for a downshift.
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:35 pm
One thing I’ve noticed in my obviously small sample size of vehicles I’ve driven is that it seems like the paddle shifters are merely a suggestion to the computer which a lot of times delays the shifts and saps the enjoyment. Not sure if others have experienced this as well.
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:42 pm
The guy who sold me my C7 went to a C7 introduction/driving school at a track, and said they had the students just leave the manual in 4th. The engine is perfectly happy at any speed from 30 to 130 in 4th gear. They had them try the different drive modes with the automatic. There is little difference in actual performance potential. If you floor it, the shift points are the same, or about the same in “track” mode as in “eco” mode.
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:43 pm
We have paddle shifters on our Gen5 V6 Camaro RS. I have never used them to assist with driving, although I played with them a few times to see how they work. My wife and I both inadvertently actuated them when we first got the car. That is a bit disconcerting when the trans stops shifting normally and you don’t know why! Even worse, you don’t intuitively know how to stop it while you are busy driving.
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:46 pm
I played with the paddle shifters within the 1st week of ownership. No value. Similarly, no value for the decklid spoiler. The decklid spoiler on one of our cars has negative value… increased the weight of the decklid and difficult to clean/dry the gap between its belly and the decklid.
Paddle Shifters = Short Term Play Toy + Bragabout = This generation’s fade (akin to past generation’s opera windows and hood ornaments).
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:50 pm
Paddle shifters are really useful in So Cal rush hour freeway traffic. I don’t need to constantly use brakes .
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:54 pm
Paddle shifters, I am a big fan: just like 3 Chuck, 5 Jeff, 9 ArtG and 11 Ron I use the paddle shifters for controlling pace downhill. Works very well with engines with a lot of low end torque, such as my two Jeep Grand Cherokees with the Diesel engines and will do so again once my Jeep Wrangler Diesel is delivered next month.
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:55 pm
Engine braking always. Frequently no need to touch the brake pedal until almost stopped (unless I am being a little aggressive).
Never use the paddle to up-shift for acceleration.
Sometimes for passing if I need instant response.
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:56 pm
I’ve had paddle shifters on several cars over the years, and never used them. I love manuals, but without a clutch pedal, I didn’t see the point in shifting myself.
On a recent trip to Colorado I did end up in a rental car (Jeep Wrangler) with paddle shifters that were really helpful. The Jeep shifter had no other means for holding a hear going down mountain grades other than shift to manual mode. It worked quite well, although I certainly didn’t need steering wheel paddles to do it. A switch on the PRNDL lever would have worked just as well.
July 22nd, 2020 at 12:59 pm
@16, as to my next vehicle the Wrangler Diesel: in 10 years from now I will own the ultimate fossil fuel dinosaur. Most others will have 400 mile range anxiety with their electric vehicle, or, if the trend will be like the new Mercedes gasoline engines presented yesterday (2 liter 380-420 horsepower engines) those who will drive a gasoline engine will have a 400 mile engine lifespan
July 22nd, 2020 at 1:09 pm
I have them in my Mustang GT and do use them for downhill braking. The 10 speed tranny in Sport + mode is so fast that the paddle shifters are not needed for added acceleration.
July 22nd, 2020 at 1:09 pm
Hello and thank you for the interesting content.
Yes, I use the paddle shifters and have used on previous models ranging from BMW 5 series, Volvo V60 Polestar or Mercedes.
I don’t use them constantly, occasionally for more spirited driving as not all models allow the intervention when not being in the ‘sport’ mode, so when shifting down too often, the car signals error in gearbox.
I’d prefer a manual but the models were not available with one.
July 22nd, 2020 at 1:23 pm
I use the paddle shifters on my ’17 Subaru Forester XT, mostly on descending hills or approaching red lights to improve engine braking. Very handy and saves the brakes!
July 22nd, 2020 at 1:23 pm
I use them on 2018 Mustang GT not on 2019 Outback 3.6
July 22nd, 2020 at 1:23 pm
Both my and my wife’s car has them, but neither of us use them (I don’t think she even knows what they are or what they’re for).
It’s nice to see that the Model S and X will be getting some type of update. They are still beautiful looking cars to my eye, but with more new EV’s coming out, keeping their offerings hardware ahead of the rest and visible fresh will be a good thing!
You said that Daimler is no doubt kicking themselves for selling the stock they had in Tesla. I’m sure like you said, Sean, their input is what probably has contributed to why the Model S and the rest of Tesla’s vehicles are so good. The funny thing to me is that, while they were interested in taking Tesla’s battery know how for themselves, Tesla was doing the same to them! So much so, many have spent the same type of money for a Model S, as they would have on an S-Class. Talk about a slap in the face! The really interesting thing is, since the Model S has hit the road, the S-Class has gone through parts of two generations, while the S has seen little change. While sells of the S have slipped some, based on your reporting, it is still a strong seller, with little direct competition. When the EQS hits the road, hopefully the Model S’s upgrades will come to market around the same time (and better quality control along with them). Then we’ll get to see just how close the long time luxury giant compares to the ‘Upstart’ BEV gold standard!
July 22nd, 2020 at 1:26 pm
Paddle shifters? Yes, I use them on downhill mountain grades. Something you’re missing in the flatlands of Detroitlandia.
July 22nd, 2020 at 1:29 pm
I used paddle shifters on my C6 fairly regularly but not so much on my MDX. Usually only to help with downhill braking. I’ll hazard a guess that the general public uses their paddle shifters far less than the readers of AD.
July 22nd, 2020 at 1:40 pm
Paddle shifters are a gimmick that will likely go away as John stated from most things other than sportscars. Have had them and other than playing around never used them.
I did however reach through the wheel for something and accidentally bumped the downshift paddle and wondered why the hell the car just jumped down two gears.
I also find myself accidentally hitting the call button on the wifes Grand Cherokee when turning the wheel as they don’t protect the edges with a solid divider. So when I put my finger in the spoke and turn the info-system breaks in asking me who I want to call. Mildly annoying.
July 22nd, 2020 at 1:48 pm
24 I never liked the Model X much, but it did fine in sales despite its six figure price.
On the contrary, I really like the Model S and if I buy a Tesla, it would be an S, probably used, to prove I am not an econ illiterate, and for the same price or less than a much smaller Model 3.
Having said that, the Model 3 and the Model Y is where the action is, those are the heavy volume vehicles that already made Tesla a MILLION UNIT maker, months ago. They should sell (and have sold) ten times what the S and X sell.
In fact, some view the S and the X as TRIAL RUNS for the all-important Models 3 and Y.
July 22nd, 2020 at 1:50 pm
I use my paddle shifters when driving through town for engine braking. Also, when I drive the local canyon road – where I can make full use of the awesome 156hp power plant that is leashed to the CVT – LOL
July 22nd, 2020 at 1:51 pm
Paddle shifters and 3rd row seats, two things the auto press would make a big deal out of if you didn’t have but most people would rarely use. The newer auto trans are a lot better at downshifting.
July 22nd, 2020 at 1:55 pm
About the Tesla changes, the Model 3 and Model Y taught how to build them for less cost and more performance. Functional exterior and interior change are less important than what happens when the accelerator is mashed to the floor. That performance minimizes most cosmetic flaws that non-drivers see.
The paddle shifters remind me of a dual-clutch test drive I once took after a decade of Prius driving. The up-down engine speed changes and acceleration pull-pause made me slightly nauseated. None of our cars today has a clutch as they pull throughout the speed range.
July 22nd, 2020 at 1:55 pm
Also glad to hear Tesla is looking to freshen up the S & X. That should peak some interest back into the models.
Plaid mode; What you and the car will look like after you launch it into a cement wall divider. A nice blend of red and green
Not sure about hybrid Jeeps. On one hand you have the enthusiasts that would love to plow their Wrangler through a secluded stream which seems counter-environmentalist, Then you have ones trying to get out and be part of nature which the hybrid will appeal to. Could go either way. No doubt the whole dog thing is taking a page right from Subaru.
As for the tattooed Lexus; ahe! Nice piece of art and I can appreciate for the talented artists work but would have been just as impressed on canvas or flat sheet metal.
July 22nd, 2020 at 2:00 pm
We have a 2018 Cadillac CT6 plug-in. So when driving an ICE car I’m always reaching for the regen paddles!
July 22nd, 2020 at 2:04 pm
I believe the paddle shifters work better when its a DSG transmission. I used them a lot when I own a VW GTI. Loved them!! But when I used them in my BMW 2, I really missed the dual-clutch and rarely used them, too slow. I have them in my new Jeep Grand Cherokee, and I use when I’m on two-lane highway wanting to pass someone. With transmission coming with so many gears, it takes too long to downshift, so I preselect the gear for passing. Also, as someone that has a bad back and can’t own a manual shifting car, I hope they don’t go away. Super fun in DSG and get faster shifts.
July 22nd, 2020 at 2:05 pm
Never use my paddle shifters or gear selector, they could very well disappear and i would not miss them. That said I live in Houston where I don’t battle grades nor snow, instead I battle silly drivers and road debris.
July 22nd, 2020 at 2:09 pm
I am glad to see revamped S and X, it’s past due. I think they have the potential for leaving everyone else in the dust on range and performance… all over again. Porsche, watch out.
July 22nd, 2020 at 2:38 pm
It is telling that one story generated nearly all of the comments here today. Also, since nearly all of the viewers are auto enthusiasts, the percentage of paddle shift users probably skews much higher than for the total population of vehicle owners.
I got fired up about this topic a few years ago when I saw that Chrysler minivans came with paddle shifters as standard equipment. How ridiculous! And what a waste of money. You would think the bean counters would have axed these on all vehicles years ago, except for high performance vehicles. I have never used them, or the silly dual gate stick shifter that serves the same function. I agree with John. Given the sophistication of today’s automatics, why would anyone need to shift it this way?
July 22nd, 2020 at 2:59 pm
I was very excited when my last new car purchase had paddle shifters. my first.The excitement faded very quickly after a few weeks.Shifting the car into sport mode does such a great job shifting where i like it,it has become moot.
July 22nd, 2020 at 3:00 pm
17. I use cruise control on downhills steep enough to need engine braking with my Corvette, and it downshifts automatically if need be to avoid picking up speed. That doesn’t happen often, though, in either Indiana or Florida. There are some hills in between, though.
July 22nd, 2020 at 3:17 pm
It’s nice that Tesla is updating the S and X a little, but what they really need to do, is improve quality. A friend recently bought a new Model S, and describes the paint job as “having dust in the clear coat.” Come on, that’s an S-Class priced car, or nearly so, with a paint job that wouldn’t make it out of the factory on a Nissan Versa. We all know that Tesla buyers, at least many of them, don’t care about such things, but when Tesla has more competition in semi-premium EVs, that will change. The styling of the Model S still looks great, but at some point, serious competition will come along, and Tesla’s crappy build quality will get more attention.
As far as my friend’s car, it may (or may not) have been built shortly after the restart of the plant, or while Elon was fighting with the local sheriff, which may partly account for the crappy paint job.
July 22nd, 2020 at 3:21 pm
35. So does the VW DSG shift immediately, like a tenth of a second or so when you use the paddles, rather than maybe a quarter second like with torque converter automatics?
July 22nd, 2020 at 3:29 pm
I have a Lexus IS300 with the 2.0 Turbo and I use the paddles almost daily in 2 conditions. Off-ramps to gear down when coasting and on-ramps when the transmission always seems to want to be in a higher gear than the one I want. The rest of the time its full auto. Keep up the great programming John and Sean!
July 22nd, 2020 at 4:24 pm
I have paddle shifters on my MB GLE. Only used them a couple of times. I really don’t find them fun to use. But I do enjoy using the gear shift knob on my Sprinter Van to down and up shift. I know you are only tapping it, but when you use it, it has a purpose and a function.
July 22nd, 2020 at 5:10 pm
I can’t stand that people call the electric assist rear wheel drive models all wheel drive. They are really just an electric assist vehicle, that ends up with front wheel drive only as soon as the hybrid battery runs out of juice. This is the same for the Prius, Camry, etc. It is cheap alternative to true AWD. I think it is false advertising for sure. The salespeople don’t ever want to discuss it if you go into a dealership. (Oh yeah who does that anymore!)
July 22nd, 2020 at 5:20 pm
Early reports are that Tesla made a modest 2020 Q2 profit. This might lead to S&P500 inclusion. Most lay analysis suggests ~25 million shares would need to be purchases by the S&P500 ‘shadow’ funds.
Another report (http://shortsqueeze.com/shortinterest/stock/TSLA.htm) indicates the percent of SHORT stocks is just under 10% of the available float shares. The last few days, the SHORTs have been covering their margins (https://fintel.io/ss/us/tsla.)
FYI, the “Montana Skeptic” posted “… The focus of my reading and my thinking has moved away from Tesla (and soon my writing may do so as well). …” Perhaps he wasn’t such a good After Hours guest.
You might try to get Cathie Wood of Ark to explain what is going on.
July 22nd, 2020 at 5:39 pm
44. You really need to find out how these systems work. Power is available to the rear wheels when needed, when the front wheels lose traction. The hybrid battery does not “run out of juice,” ever. One of the motor generators is producing electricity, being turned by the gas engine, keeping charge in the battery to provide power to the rear when needed, to help with acceleration, and sometimes to power the car without the gas engine running, at low speeds. The battery also gets charge from regenerative braking when slowing down. It’s not a cheap alternative to “true” AWD, whatever you mean by “true” vs “untrue.” It’s a somewhat more expensive, but much more efficient alternative to the usual mechanical AWD used in crossovers.
I’m not saying that a RAV4 hybrid will do as well at rock crawling as a Wrangler Rubicon, but it does what it is intended to do, move better in ice and snow than fwd vehicles, like other 4wd crossovers.
July 22nd, 2020 at 5:51 pm
Hi John. Just saw your segment on Paddle Shifters. Last month I took delivery of a 2020 BMW M2 Competition with the DCT. It replaced my 2010 M3 with a 6-speed manual transmission. I love the DCT and I probably use the manual mode 75% of the time. With all of the dynamic settings BMW programs into steering effort, gear change speed, and a number of other programmable features, the car begs you to use the paddles. This is my first vehicle with the DCT and I do not regret the investment or the ability to shift it myself. OBTW, I have a 2018 BMW X5 with the ZF 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters. I rarely use them except in snow as you suggested. You are correct in the assumption of what car you drive determines the desire to use the paddle shifting mode.
July 22nd, 2020 at 6:13 pm
RE: Paddle Shifters… I remember when Autostick was available on the Dodge Intrepid. At the time I thought it was cool. When I drove a Mazda6 it had autostick as standard equipment. How many times did I use it in 16 years of ownership? 5 times (maybe). Now I own a Hyundai Sonata and will probably never use the autostick.
July 22nd, 2020 at 6:14 pm
Why yes, FORMULA 1 used paddle shifters every single week and they use them quite nicely! Lol. However, the general public out here.. not so much.
July 22nd, 2020 at 7:25 pm
I sure hope that the updated S and X showcases a new design language for TESLA. Their current styling is ancient and incredibly boring. It doesn’t appeal to me. It never really appealed to me to begin with anyhow. The S always reminded me of a Buick with a stylized T badge on the trunk.
July 22nd, 2020 at 8:04 pm
47. The Formula 1 rules don’t allow automatic shifting. They want the driver to have more to do, like moving paddles. If automatic shifting were legal, they’d probably use it most of the time.
July 22nd, 2020 at 8:23 pm
I mainly use the paddle shifters on my 2019 Mustang GT for downshifting to save the brakes.
July 22nd, 2020 at 8:33 pm
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#inbox/FMfcgxwJWrjWPTXdXWkrkfPNPXJblgSM
You’re welcome. Or you could wait and get the news tomorrow, as usual.
TESLA picks TEXAS for both the Cybertruck AND the very important SEMI.
July 22nd, 2020 at 8:34 pm
https://www.autonews.com/manufacturing/tesla-picks-texas-cybertruck-semi-factory?utm_source=breaking-news&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=20200722&utm_content=hero-image
THIS should be the right link for 50, in case the other is not working 4 u.
July 22nd, 2020 at 8:37 pm
had my XTS four years and never used them.
July 22nd, 2020 at 8:40 pm
It never rains but it pours.
https://www.autonews.com/automakers-suppliers/tesla-racks-4th-straight-quarterly-profit
I wonder what the stock did today (or will it react tomorrow)
I bet this made your day, Debbie Downers Tesla Haters Joe and Wolfie. And Kit, who alleges that Tesla is a ‘cult’ and sold 1 million + units at high to very high prices, and anyway MUCH higher than any models of the same VOLUME by any automaker, by having “quality” problems. WHich is LAUGHABLE to me, especially since ALL 100 Teslas I have seen up close were IMMACULATE in the exterior.
Tesla haters, get this: Not only does Tesla DOMINATE the BEV segment for 8 years now, NOT Only is it a very clear “NUMBER ONE” world-wide in that segment, but there is not even the consolation of anybody else being a strong SECOND placer.
July 22nd, 2020 at 8:42 pm
53 forgot, immaculate in the exterior AND really high class in the interior, NO CRAPPY meterials like in the BOLT and the VOLT (which was never a clean BEV anyway) and the LEAF and all these losers that bit the dust.
July 22nd, 2020 at 8:57 pm
52 Both my 1998 BMW with its excellent ZF 5-speed auto AND the current two E class diesels with their also outstanding 7-sp (probably ZF too), have manual options, but I never bothered to use them either, at any time. These autos do a fantastic job adapting the right gear to every situation.
In addition, when (30 years) I drove pure manuals, like witht he Accord coupe, they did very little to improve its weak performance, around town and especially in the mountains around LA (Barstow etc). 125 HP, 137 LBFT, 2822 lbs) when I would shift to a far noisier and annoying lower gear than the 5th and 4th.
July 22nd, 2020 at 9:14 pm
John,
I use the +/- shift on my Yukon because of the poor shifting in city driving. The 6 speed auto keeps trying to go into overdrive mode to save fuel (haha) but is always trying figure out which gear it needs. So, I put it in manual mode to eliminate the poor shifting.
July 22nd, 2020 at 9:27 pm
53. Tesla may (or may not) use high quality materials, but the build quality and paint jobs are not good. Even you should know that. The Bolt, and every other car on the market has better, more consistent build quality. Yes, Tesla built 1 million cars, in about 10 years. Toyota and GM build that many in a few weeks. Yeah, Tesla is now building a lot more, probably about 0.5M/year, with the Shanghai plant.
and yes, Tesla does, indeed, have a cult-like following. If GM built the exact same car as the Model S, they would not be able to sell at the price Tesla sells if for, especially with the substandard paint jobs.
55 Your 7-speeds are Daimler, not ZF. BMW still uses mostly, or entirely ZF automatics, including a lot of the 8 speed longitudinal that Chrysler builds under license in my home town in Indiana.
July 22nd, 2020 at 10:27 pm
#50 – They would probably replace the driver with a 14 year old kid and a game joy controller.
July 23rd, 2020 at 7:12 am
#57 – “the build quality and paint jobs are not good. Even you should know that.” I don’t care. If I want to waste time and money to ‘show car’ mine for your enjoyment, my Model 3 would go with a Star Wars, reflective, silver wrap (see link.)
There are plenty of YouTube videos about wrapping Teslas and lamentations about build quality. For now, my blue paint works and I am working on new wheels and tires (aka. gear head.)
I’m replacing the OEM rims and tires with lighter weight and higher rated, low rolling resistance tires with better wear rating. Initially a staggered configuration, I’ll go back to square once the OEM tires wear out (Tesla uses fat performance tires.) A retired engineer, I’ll also look at aerodynamics.
In a recent rain, I noticed good water streams over most of the rear window. However, the upper left and right corners showed evidence of flow reversal in 3×6 inch areas where vortex generators might keep the flow attached. Furthermore, I current rear spoilers do not impress me. Finally, I want to reduce the front inlet area.
As for my “well used” Model 3, after 26,000 miles over 16 months, any “paint and body gaps” do not longer matter.
July 23rd, 2020 at 7:14 am
https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2020/07/dodge-dubbed-most-appealing-mainstream-brand-by-j-d-power/#more-1729022
maybe tomorrow’s (today’s) show will include this silly article as well. I guess if you pay those JD Power clowns enough, they will declare anybody to be anything.
As to which (TRULY MAINSTREAM NOW) brand is REALLY the most appealing, take a wild guess (of course it is not Dodge, Kia or Fiat!)
Hint: It is in the news with huge positive stories almost every single day, does not spend ONE DIME on STUPID ads (these are the only kind) AND some here believe its fans are so… fanatic, it’s really a “CULT”.
July 23rd, 2020 at 7:39 am
59 There will be a lot of wrap business for Cybertruck. Not everyone who buys one will want the same look that is now fashionable for refrigerators.
July 23rd, 2020 at 8:03 am
60. Tesla is not mainstream. The cheapest car they sell, Model 3 standard range plus, is about $40K, and most are significantly more expensive than that. J.D. Power doesn’t “officially” give them awards, I guess because they aren’t sold in all 50 states, but if they did, they would be classed “premium” or “luxury,” not “mainstream.”
The mainstream appeal “winner” is not too surprising. They don’t have many products, but some of them are what might be considered exciting, and there is actual choice in how you can equip them, rare these days for a mainstream brand.
July 23rd, 2020 at 8:24 am
50 So you want credit for releasing news in the comment section on ALD at 8:30 at night that didn’t even come out until 6:00pm knowing full well they wont release a show again until tomorrow. Then follow it with “or we can wait until tomorrow”. Like you are the (heard it here first journalist) You indeed are a real piece of work.
ADL does an amazing job I honestly hope that the folks at ALD provide the shortest mention of Tesla in Texas tomorrow as possible just to watch Larry loose his utter mind (further).
July 23rd, 2020 at 8:28 am
61 Maybe they can use the cybertruck in another “Back to the Future” movie. It may end up having more similarities with a Delorian than just the stainless steel exterior.
July 23rd, 2020 at 9:38 am
I use the paddles frequently when towing or traveling in the mountains, they are very useful for downhill engine braking and downshifting for hills
July 23rd, 2020 at 10:23 am
67 That response was to 54 not 50.
July 23rd, 2020 at 10:31 am
https://www.autonews.com/dealers/autonation-add-least-20-used-only-stores?utm_source=breaking-news&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=20200723&utm_content=hero-image
Makes total sense. Used cars already sell three times the number of new cars every year, and expanding the used only stores shows that people have finally got it, what a huge bargain used car prices are in the US. (will they continue to be if people wise up and buy more of them?)
July 23rd, 2020 at 10:33 am
https://www.autonews.com/video/first-shift-musk-tesla-needs-fix-affordability-problem?utm_source=antv-first-shift&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=20200723&utm_content=hero-headline
This video should be accessible to all. Musk says his cars are not affordable? Ask the almost one million buyers who own the Model 3. (and if they are not one million yet world-wide, wait a couple months, pandemic or not.)
July 23rd, 2020 at 10:37 am
https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2020/07/tesla-a-surprise-profit-a-stock-bounce-and-a-factory-site-secured/
Details of yesterday’s Tesla Triumphs, pandemic or not. Read it and weep (or finally wise up and get your head out of the sand) Joe and Cwolf.
July 23rd, 2020 at 11:55 am
I have 5 vehicles that i drive during the month. Four of them are manuals. The fifth one is an automatic with paddle shifters. I really enjoy driving the manuals and when i first got the auto with the paddles i thought they would be great! Now months later i find that i never use them. Somehow, without the third pedal under the dash it is just not the same. If you don’t have a manual to sell than i’m not buying!
July 23rd, 2020 at 2:47 pm
My wife had paddle shifters in her G6, owned it for 11 years, and never used them.
July 23rd, 2020 at 10:49 pm
Acura TSX and a true manual shifter that had to quit manuals after 38 years of a stick for repetitive motion injury from shifting 30K a hear.
Never use them. Just not nearly the same. If the shoulder had not given out manual all the way but alas paddles are no replacement.
July 24th, 2020 at 10:52 am
I wish I had paddle shifters. Instead, I find myself using manual mode on the gear selector every time I am towing with my Lexus SUV or in regular commuting to downshift to an off-ramp stoplight.
July 24th, 2020 at 2:04 pm
I use the paddle shifters multiple times every time I am in the car. I often shift the automatic to manual. That sets up tighter steering and programs the tranny for tighter faster shifts between gears. To up and down through the gears I use the paddles and man are those shifts fast. Love it.