Blog — What are paddle shifters

The shift paddle is a gear shift device installed on the semi-automatic clutch of the car. This device is widely used in racing cars. As a fast shifting device, the paddle shifter can greatly improve the "interoperability" of driving. The paddle shifters are generally located behind the steering wheel. When manipulating the paddle shifters, the driver typically simply pushes the gear into D, S, or manual mode. Using the paddle shifters, the driver can shift up and down without taking his hands off the steering wheel. Select manual mode (usually a button), then push the shift lever to the D...

Today’s automatic transmission technology is better than ever. The sophisticated setup of so-called “paddle shifters” has become increasingly prevalent among car owners. Probably many drivers have heard of paddle shifters, but very few really know how they work. In many drivers’ eyes, paddle shifters are merely car accessories. But is this true? What are they for?   Paddle shifters were first adopted in racing cars, especially Formular One cars. To minimize its weight and improve its pneumatic performance, a Formular One car has a minimal cockpit, which is not even sufficient to allow it to be equipped with a traditional...