Would you want a manual-shifting EV? Lexus is developing one. EVs don’t always need the multi-speed transmissions we’ve become accustomed to in an ICE car. The high torque at zero RPM characteristics of an electric motor makes them irrelevant. Still, a lack of driver engagement derived from pushing down a clutch pedal and moving a shifter lever just isn’t present with EVs, leading many to accuse them of being, well, boring.
Not anymore. In a viral video posted on Twitter by Evo, a Lexus UX200e engineering car has a manual-looking shift lever in place of its automatic e-shifter. The test driver can be seen moving the lever around, as simulated engine sounds emulate the rise and fall of a traditional ICE engine and power curve. Keep in mind this is all simulated, the gearstick and clutch pedal aren’t connected to the drivetrain at all.
Lexus is developing a manual transmission for electric cars, and here's a first look at a working prototype. Is this the future of the driver's car? https://t.co/sUIaspEpeO pic.twitter.com/aaTUBz6qGg
— evo magazine (@evomagazine) December 5, 2022
According to Evo, the shifting action isn’t just limited to the operation of moving a lever and pressing a clutch pedal, the electric motor can be tuned to have characteristics of an ICE. Perhaps, Toyota and Lexus could simulate its greatest hits of ICE engines, as a way to keep folks interested and engaged with EVs. You can even “stall” these simulated manual experiences.
Toyota and Lexus aren’t the first manufacturers to develop this tech. In China, BYD and Chery both have EVs with simulated manual transmissions made for Chinese driving schools. Whether or not this tech will end up in a future EV, or just remain a curious engineering gimmick, well, we just have to wait and see.
Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here
The post Lexus Is Developing A Simulated Stick-Shift For EVs, Will It Catch On? appeared first on AutoGuide.com.