Learner Electric Car

EssexExile

I can't be doing with all that gear changing, especially as the latest carriage has 8 of them.

I did think it odd that cars come with automatic chokes, something you use once a trip, automatic aircon that you would twiddle once in a while, but not automatic gears that you use all the time.

Car_54

AdrianC wrote: »

But, as far as driving tests are concerned, it's very simple - count the pedals.

But don't forget to check for a clutch lever adaptation.

jimbo6977

Most autos I've driven are pretty frustrating, especially in town environments which is where they are supposedly of most benefit.

If you could have a "smart" auto which learned your preferred driving style and adapted, it would be better, but how would it learn without also allowing manual inputs initially (and how much would it cost????)

DrEskimo

I drove an Audi A5 with the CVT style automatic (multitronic) and a S5 with the dual clutch S-tronic automatic, but now I drive an EV (Renault Zoe).

The Zoe is nothing like the other autos. Best way I can think to explain it is it's like being constantly in 1st gear, where you are always in the optimal power band at any speed....no delay and instant response.

Still drive the conventional automatic gearbox in my OH Mini and that is just awful...

EssexExile

jimbo6977 wrote: »

Most autos I've driven are pretty frustrating, especially in town environments which is where they are supposedly of most benefit.

If you could have a "smart" auto which learned your preferred driving style and adapted, it would be better, but how would it learn without also allowing manual inputs initially (and how much would it cost????)

I had a Mitsubishi many years ago which supposedly "learnt" your style, presumably from how often you used kick down & how hard (or otherwise) you drove it. It was the best auto I have ever driven.

AdrianC

jimbo6977 wrote: »

If you could have a "smart" auto which learned your preferred driving style and adapted, it would be better, but how would it learn without also allowing manual inputs initially (and how much would it cost????)

Pretty much every autobox over the last couple of decades has done exactly that.

Dr_Crypto

Thanks - some interesting facts about electrics I didn't know.
I guess things do change - for example I doubt many people today would be able to drive a Model T Ford!
Can't see myself ever going back to manual - in fact I even try to hire an auto on holiday assuming the prices aren't prohibitive.

iolanthe07

Most autos I've driven are pretty frustrating, especially in town environments which is where they are supposedly of most benefit.


I'm surprised at this. Autos, especially torque converter autos, come into their own in stop-start traffic, whether in town or stuck in a motorway traffic snarl up. I would never go back to a manual now as my main car.

almillar

I never had you pegged for a yoof, Al.

I think I should be offended?! I'm 39. My only experience of a choke is from an Escort a few friends had in a mate's field. I passed my test in 1997, so none of the cars I've owned have had a choke lever.

Am I unusual in preferring manual?

If you commute in rush hour traffic queues, maybe you are.

The Zoe is nothing like the other autos

Yeah - it's not auto - as in automatically changing gears - it doesn't have them. In the 'traffic light grand prix', you really notice the time lost when the driver beside you falls back whilst they change gear.