As part of its efforts to create a more authentic driving experience for electric vehicle (EV) owners, Toyota is reportedly introducing a simulated manual transmission feature in its EV models, complete with engine revving sounds and artificial jerkiness mimicking the feeling of shifting gears. A pioneering automotive innovation showcases a novel system featuring up to 14 advanced pseudo-gear sets, effectively enhancing zero-emission driving capabilities and potentially winning over manual transmission enthusiasts to join the electric vehicle revolution.
More than 12 months have passed since whispers emerged of Toyota’s innovative plan to develop a simulated manual transmission featuring a clutch pedal and shift lever designed to mimic the experience of actual gear shifting, with patent filings dating as far back as 2017. Recently, Toyota has revisited its electric vehicle strategy, unveiling a “guide BEV idea” dubbed at the Japan Mobility Expo last month. The showcase featured an idea model of its Lexus UX 300e, complete with advanced drivetrain components including a gearbox and clutch. The corporation’s enthusiasm was palpable after the trial, prompting them to consider further action.
While outside the car remains whisper-quiet like most electric vehicles, a clever innovation awaits within: synthesized engine sounds are discreetly channeled through the audio system, convincingly mimicking the sensory experience of driving an internal combustion engine. Since BEVs, or battery-electric vehicles, are inherently quiet due to the absence of internal combustion engines, it’s unclear what specific aspect you’re trying to highlight. However, here’s a revised attempt:
“From the outside, this car boasts an impressive level of quietness akin to other BEVs.” According to Takashi Watanabe, chief engineer of Lexus’s electric vehicles, the driver is poised to experience the full gamut of sensations associated with driving a manual transmission vehicle. This mission’s recent progress has yielded significant benefits, effectively bringing its overall status to a level ripe for further refinement.
While the initial concept featured a mere six-speed transmission, Toyota has since elevated its game by introducing a more sophisticated 14-gear system. Notably, the patent filing spotted by Moto1.com reveals a novel system featuring a comprehensive array of hypothetical gearsets – more than twice that typically found in a conventional transmission’s manual gearbox. While having multiple gear options may seem overwhelming at first, drivers can opt for the number that suits their driving style best, making it an enjoyable experience overall.
While many EVs feature a single-speed transmission, this setup may leave enthusiasts of manual gearboxes craving more tactile engagement, potentially leaving them feeling underwhelmed. Compared to internal combustion engines (ICE), electric vehicles (EVs) boast a significantly reduced environmental footprint, while also offering instant access to full torque at any RPM, as opposed to ICE engines requiring gear shifts with varying ratios to transmit power to the wheels. Multispeed transmissions in select electric vehicles (EVs) from renowned manufacturers like Porsche, Audi, and Jaguar have been designed to optimize performance and range by featuring multiple gears that reduce the strain on the electric motor at higher speeds, thereby extending driving distance.
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Pretending that transmissions are a novel concept would be an exaggeration, since Dodge has already introduced an innovative feature in its Charger Daytona SRT “Banshee” concept car, dubbed eRupt transmission. Honda had considered implementing a simulated manual transmission option in their forthcoming electric vehicle (EV) lineup, but ultimately decided against it.
Electrek’s Take
While a pretend gearbox may seem gimmicky at first glance, some proponents argue that it could actually add an entertaining element to electric racing cars. Isn’t the peaceful, whisper-quiet ride of an electric vehicle one of its most alluring attributes? While Toyota was an early adopter of hybrid technology through the Prius, it surprisingly didn’t introduce a mass-produced all-electric vehicle until 2020, with its first effort being somewhat underwhelming. Instead of appearing condescending, why not let Toyota focus its energy on a single impactful initiative and set aside the bells and whistles? However, assuming a virtual environment, the notion of driving as an online game simulation does raise some interesting questions about its potential consequences. I won’t judge it until I’ve given it a try.
