FYI: Mark Cuban Eyes Selling Tesla Over Turn Signal Feature Change
Mark Cuban’s Tesla Dilemma
Elon Musk’s Tesla has been a point of contention for billionaire Mark Cuban, but not for the reasons you might expect. Despite their heated exchanges on Musk’s X (previously Twitter), Cuban’s reason for wanting to sell his Tesla is surprisingly simple: the turn signal button.
The Turn Signal Controversy
Cuban, the entrepreneur famous for owning the Dallas Mavericks, is considering switching his Tesla for a Kia EV6. Why? Tesla’s decision to replace the traditional turn signal stalk with a button on the steering wheel in new models (including the Model 3, Model S, and Model X) has been a sticking point for him—and many others in the Tesla community.
Tesla’s Design Shift
Tesla’s design change aimed at modernizing the driving experience sparked debate. The elimination of the stalk in favor of steering wheel-integrated buttons met with mixed reviews, leading some enthusiasts to advocate reverting to traditional controls. Tesla heeded these recommendations by reintroducing the stalk in the Model Y.
Cuban’s Perspective
On the "Your Mom’s House" podcast, Cuban expressed frustration with the new feature: "On the Tesla, you’ve got to find the turn signal button while you’re driving. You can’t pay attention to the road as well." He appreciates the simplicity of his Kia EV6, which keeps traditional controls that he feels are more intuitive.
Cuban highlighted how quickly distractions can arise from seemingly small details, reiterating his preference for user-friendly interfaces that prioritize function over form.
Reflections on Tesla’s Choice
In previous test drives of the Tesla Model 3, some found that adapting to the button system took only a few minutes. However, the need for readjustment might deter drivers who prefer familiarity. While the ease of use could potentially improve with time, personal preferences often play a critical role in vehicle choice.
Conclusion
Mark Cuban’s case illustrates that sometimes innovation isn’t universally embraced, especially when it challenges established habits. For Cuban, the traditional feel of the turn signal remains crucial for an enjoyable drive.
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William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
