Few current electric vehicles come with the option of an manual transmission, but a few upcoming EVs aim to add more transmission options.
by Kaanii Powell Cleaver Published on April 10, 2022 6:49 amTo shift or not to shift, that is a question often asked by those who are thinking about buying an electric vehicle. If you prefer the feel of a clutch pedal under your left foot to the effortless self-shift of an automatic transmission, you’ll want to know which EV models come with manual transmissions.
We won’t tease you with the answer. Although they are relatively rare compared to automatic EV transmission options, a few electric automakers currently (or may soon) offer cars with shift-it-yourself manual transmissions.
Currently, only two manual transmission EVs are readily available. The Porsche Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo can be delivered with a two-speed rear axle transmission for a starting price of around $187,600.
Somewhat more affordable is the 2022 Audi e-tron GT. With a two-speed automated manual real axle transmission, the first all-electric car from Audi can be had for a starting price of around $101,000, advises Edmunds.
In early 2022, Toyota filed a patent for an all-electric vehicle that simulates the feel of driving a clutch-and-gearbox car. With an ersatz clutch, make-believe stick shift, and three-mode selector, the concept Toyota Sports EV will give drivers the experience of driving with a manual transmission. Unlike a gasoline-powered car, the electric motor in the proposed vehicle will never stall, explains MotorTrend magazine.
Drivers who like to put dirt roads under their wheels are looking forward to the release of an electric version of the oh-so-popular Jeep Wrangler SUV. Poised to provide the most realistic feel of any EV currently available, the futuristic six-gear manual transmission Jeep Magneto may roll off production lines in around three years, says Kelley Blue Book.
In 2019, Ford debuted a prototype EV Mustang with a six-speed manual transmission at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) trade show in Las Vegas, Nevada. The electrified “Mustang Lithium” thrilled show attendees but plans to mass market the vehicle are on hold for now, explains TechCrunch.
