No. I think this is only going to hurt Tesla in the long run. Anybody coming over from an ICE to a Tesla already has a learning curve, to adapt to the no gauges on a M3/MY and just center screen, and now we are thinking about removing the 2 stalks for what? The right side stalk to engage a drive mode, not so much of a big deal, how often are you using that so fiddling to push a button for drive/reverse not so bad. But the turn indicator?
I'll admit that I have not done much research into this, just going by the photos on Tesla's MS page and those buttons appear to be capacitive touch, flat and not a physical button like the scroll wheels. Right now I can blindly hit that turn indicator as part of my changing lanes normal process, checking other lanes, etc. something we have been trained to do since we were what, 15, 16? Now I need to look at steering and position my thumb to engage a button to activate a turn signal? This might work for the video gaming generation, but I fear this is only going to scare away the older folks, a bit too much to overcome if coming from a non-Tesla. Will those buttons work in winter with gloves on? If I have a sudden need to engage windshield wipers, how hard and long will that take?
Too many younger California, video gaming types in the designer's chair, and out of touch with the larger customer base. It might look cool and futuristic, but it will further polarize the customer base and drive potential EV buyers to other brands. If this was a customizable option, then maybe, otherwise not a smart move Tesla.
