How Can a Designated Driver Quickly Familiarize Themselves with a Vehicle?
2 Answers
A designated driver can quickly familiarize themselves with a vehicle by understanding the following types of operation methods: 1. Rotary Knob Type: Commonly found in models like Jaguar and Land Rover, this has almost become a standard feature for these brands. When the vehicle is started, the knob automatically rises, and when the engine is turned off, it retracts to form a flat surface with the center console. However, some affordable domestic vehicles have also adopted this design. 2. Button Type: Vehicles like the Lincoln MKC and Acura CDX use this shifting method, with buttons for P, R, N, D, and S neatly arranged on the center console near the steering wheel. To shift gears, simply press the corresponding button. 3. "Big Chicken Leg"—Electronic Gear Lever: This type of lever is commonly found in some high-end BMW models and is named for its resemblance to a chicken leg. When parking, pressing the P button on top of the lever engages the parking gear, and the lever lights up with a green "P" letter. Opening the door also automatically engages the P gear, with the "P" lighting up in green. 4. Electronic Column Shifter Type: The gear lever for this shifting method is placed under the steering wheel, making it very discreet and saving space on the front center console. Shifting is primarily done by finger movement, and most Mercedes-Benz vehicles use this method, which is very effortless. 5. Paddle Type: More accurately, it should be called button + paddle type. This shifting method has almost become standard for supercars from various brands, such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, and McLaren. There are two paddles on the left and right of the steering wheel—the right for upshifting and the left for downshifting. Using both simultaneously puts the vehicle in neutral.
Every time I drive a new vehicle, I start with basic checks. First, I walk around the car to ensure all lights are functioning properly, including headlights, turn signals, and brake lights, which helps prevent nighttime driving risks. The first thing I do after getting in the car is adjusting the seat position to ensure my arms can comfortably grip the steering wheel, followed by adjusting the interior and exterior rearview mirrors for a blind-spot-free view. After starting the engine, I test the windshield wipers, horn sound, and whether the air conditioning blows hot and cold air properly. I press the brakes a few times to feel the pedal travel and, for automatic transmission cars, test the throttle response before shifting into drive. During the initial few hundred meters of low-speed driving, I pay attention to dashboard warning lights like the ABS to see if they illuminate, while simultaneously getting accustomed to the steering weight and brake feedback. These steps take only three to five minutes but help me safely transition between different vehicle models, avoiding panic in emergencies.
