Excellent question. Because
Excellent question. Because the switch is not "latching." Meaning that when you restart the vehicle, the switch defaults back to its "on position." The EPA offers automakers varying incentives for non-latching versions of Stop-start and versions that have no switch at all (Chevy Blazer for example). Vehicle emissions are measured by the EPA in grams produced per mile driven. Stop-start reduces emissions. If you prefer to see it as a gimmick that's cool with me. Solar-reflective glass, certain refrigerants, and many other technologies earn automakers points towards their CAFE requirments. These gimmicks help enable the availability of V8 powertrains in cars like the Chevy Camaro and Mustang GT. I'm not advocating for these, I'm reporting on them.