A driving instructor has expressed strong criticism of a common feature in modern vehicles, stating she "genuinely hates" it because she believes it's detrimental to car health, though automotive experts disagree with her assessment.
The Controversial Feature
Modern automobiles incorporate numerous technological advancements intended to simplify driving and enhance safety. Innovations have transformed vehicles significantly since their invention, with annual updates introducing fresh technology. These include air conditioning systems, electric window controls replacing manual cranks, and reversing cameras to assist with parking manoeuvres.
Such modifications generally aim to improve driving ease and safety, allowing motorists to concentrate on road conditions rather than struggling with manual window operation or risking collisions during complex parking situations. However, according to one driving professional, not every recent technological addition proves beneficial.
Instructor's Specific Complaint
Aman Sanghera, owner of London-based Clearview Driving school, has revealed she cannot tolerate the "stop-start" technology installed in certain modern vehicles. This system automatically shuts down the engine each time the car comes to a complete halt, restarting once the driver prepares to proceed again.
The technology aims to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, and while Sanghera acknowledges it can prove valuable during extended traffic jams or when stationary at red lights, she despises how it activates during brief pauses at junctions.
"I genuinely hate the stop-start technology that you have in modern cars," she explained. "I completely understand its purpose - to prevent idling at red lights, which benefits the environment and reduces exhaust fumes for everyone nearby."
"However, when driving in towns with multiple give-way junctions, most of which are closed so you cannot see the new road until reaching the very end, I pause briefly to look, scan, and ensure it's clear. That pause might last merely five seconds, but during that time, the engine switches off. This proves extremely annoying because five seconds later, I'm proceeding again. As soon as I remove my foot from the brake, the engine restarts. Having the car perform this action constantly throughout a drive is really bad for the vehicle."
Sanghera revealed she frequently disables this feature immediately upon entering any vehicle equipped with it. She stated she would much prefer to turn the engine off manually during extended waits, such as at car washes or during completely gridlocked traffic situations.
Expert Counterarguments
Is Stop-Start Technology Actually Harmful?
The driving instructor's primary concern centers on her belief that repeatedly switching the engine on and off for brief periods damages the vehicle. However, the Automobile Association describes this as a "common worry" that lacks accuracy.
Vehicles equipped with stop-start technology feature reinforced starter motors and batteries specifically engineered to handle frequent restarts. The AA's official website clarifies: "There's a common worry that frequent starting and stopping can harm the engine. However, stop-start systems are designed to prevent engine damage by using reinforced starter motors and batteries that can handle frequent restarts. These systems ensure the engine only stops and starts under optimal conditions, reducing wear and tear on engine components and maintaining durability."
The AA acknowledges that while the system does place additional demands on the battery, vehicles featuring this technology come equipped with more robust batteries designed to manage the extra load. They nevertheless recommend regular maintenance checks to ensure optimal battery performance.
Benefits of Stop-Start Systems
Fuel Consumption and Efficiency
Stop-start systems can significantly reduce fuel costs by minimizing idling time, particularly in built-up urban areas where frequent stopping and starting occurs throughout journeys. By preventing engines from running unnecessarily at traffic lights and junctions, vehicles avoid burning fuel while stationary.
Environmental Impact
Turning off engines during stationary periods substantially reduces environmental footprints. According to AA data, utilizing stop-start technology dramatically decreases the volume of greenhouse gas emissions vehicles generate. This environmental benefit represents a key motivation behind the technology's widespread adoption in modern automotive design.
The debate between driving professionals and automotive experts highlights differing perspectives on technological integration in vehicles, with practical driving experience contrasting with engineering design principles.
