Push-to-pass

 

A button that allows the driver to temporarily increase power for a limited amount of time.  They use it in the Indy Car Series, where the power output and fuel consumption are carefully controlled.  The button can be used a limited number of times in each race.  It makes the race more exciting when two cars of essentially equal power are battling for position.  It can be used to pass, but it can also be used to defend a pass.  Each driver has to be strategic about how and when to use it during the race.

 

In fact, I think the push-to-pass button is such a good idea we should expand its use.  Trucking companies control the power output and fuel consumption of their fleet trucks by installing governors set at 64mph.  When two trucks are side-by-side on the interstate, one at 64 mph and the other at 64.01 mph, wouldn’t that be the perfect time for a push-to-pass?  It could suspend function of the governor for a limited amount of time.  Truck drivers don’t really want to drive side-by-side while the line of traffic grows behind them.  Besides, each truck is losing efficiency as it fights the aerodynamics of the truck next to it.  They’re much more efficient when driving in line drafting each other, than when being buffeted by each other’s bow wake while they’re side by side.  The trucking companies could still determine the power and fuel efficiency standards of their fleet, while allowing their drivers a certain number of uses each driving period.  There could be one more element of control for the truck drivers; adding to the interest of the job.  (At the same time contributing to overall more efficient driving and reducing one factor contributing to congestion at the same time.)