The Tesla Model 3 Highland breaks away from traditional manual gear selectors by placing it in a unique location. Unlike its predecessors, the Model 3 Highland no longer features physical stalks for gear shifts, opting instead to rely on its infotainment display. At first, critics were concerned about the safety and convenience of this design choice, but over time, such complaints disappeared with the Model S and Model X. Nevertheless, the Model 3 Highland also includes a set of manual gear selectors in case the infotainment system becomes unusable. However, the placement of these selectors near the rearview mirror may make manual gear shifting awkward and cumbersome. While it would still work, the operation would not be natural or convenient.
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Introduction
The Tesla Model 3 Highland, an all-electric sedan, features a unique placement of the manual gear selector, which is worth examining. In this article, we will explore the observation of the Model 3 Highland, the gear shifting options available, initial concerns and complaints, and the absence of an auto shift feature. We will also discuss the use of the gear selector in the infotainment system and the location of the manual gear selectors. Finally, we will delve into the awkwardness and inconvenience of manual gear shifting in the Model 3 Highland.
Observation of the Tesla Model 3 Highland
An immediate observation of the Tesla Model 3 Highland is the absence of physical stalks, including the gear selector. Similar to the Model S and Model X, the gear shifts in the Model 3 Highland are primarily done through its infotainment display. This implementation demonstrates Tesla’s expertise in in-vehicle software and user interface design.
Gear Shifts through Infotainment Display
The use of the infotainment display for gear shifting may have raised concerns when it was first introduced in the Model S and Model X. Critics argued that it could be cumbersome and unsafe. However, over the years, complaints about the in-display gear selector in the Model S and Model X have significantly decreased, indicating that users have become more comfortable with this method of gear shifting.
Credit: Tesla
Initial Concerns and Complaints
When the in-display gear selector was rolled out in the Model S and Model X, there were concerns about its usability and potential safety risks. However, these concerns have gradually diminished as users have become more familiar with the system and its functionality. The positive user experience and feedback from Model S and Model X owners have contributed to the disappearance of complaints over time.
Disappearance of Complaints over the Years
The fact that complaints about the in-display gear selector in the Model S and Model X no longer exist suggests that users have adapted to the system and found it to be convenient and user-friendly. Tesla’s continuous improvements in software updates and user interface design have likely played a significant role in ensuring a smooth transition and addressing any initial concerns.
Multiple Gear Shifting Options in Model S and Model X
Unlike the Model 3 Highland, the Model S and Model X are equipped with multiple gear shifting options, including an auto shift feature, an in-display gear selector, and a manual gear selector located beside the hazard button in the center console. The inclusion of these options provides users with flexibility and allows them to choose their preferred method of gear shifting.
Absence of Auto Shift in Model 3 Highland
As of now, the Model 3 Highland does not feature an auto shift option, unlike its counterparts, the Model S and Model X. Auto shift allows for seamless gear shifting without the need for user intervention. However, it should be noted that the absence of auto shift has not been confirmed for the Model 3 Highland, and future updates might include this feature.
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Use of Gear Selector in Infotainment System
Based on the current available information, the gear selector in the Model 3 Highland is operated through the infotainment system. Images released by Tesla in press materials from China and Europe showcase drivers using the gear selector in the infotainment display. This implementation aligns with Tesla’s focus on in-vehicle software and provides a consistent user experience across their vehicle lineup.
Credit: Tesla China
Awkwardness and Inconvenience of Manual Gear Shifting in Model 3 Highland
While the inclusion of manual gear selectors in the Model 3 Highland offers a backup method in case the in-display gear selector malfunctions, the location of these manual gear selectors presents an awkward and inconvenient user experience. In the Model S and Model X, the manual gear selectors are located beside the hazard button on the center console, making them easily accessible. However, in the Model 3 Highland, the hazard button is positioned close to the rearview mirror, making it more challenging to operate the manual gear selectors naturally.
In conclusion, the unique placement of the manual gear selector in the Tesla Model 3 Highland, operated primarily through the infotainment display, is an intriguing aspect of the vehicle’s design. Although concerns and complaints surrounding the use of in-display gear selectors have diminished over time, the absence of an auto shift feature and the potential inconveniences of manual gear shifting in the Model 3 Highland raise interesting considerations for users. However, it should be noted that Tesla’s continuous improvements and future updates may address any potential issues and enhance the overall user experience.