No “manual gearbox” for Honda EVs
Words: Harrison Wade
Honda has suggested it has no plans to put a simulated manual gearbox in its future electric vehicles following its rival’s claims to do so.
Even though most EVs use a one-speed reduction box, manufacturers like Toyota have lauded the idea of putting fake manual gearboxes in their electric models for the sake of driver engagement.
However, in an interview with Car and Driver, Honda CEO Toshihiro Mibe and head of electrification Shinji Aoyama didn’t seem so keen on the idea.
“Artificially, we can do it. Mechanically, it is not easy,” said Aoyama speaking to Car and Driver.
“I’m not sure if we can replace the manual transmission,” added Mibe.
It seems then that Honda would prefer to make its EVs fun in other ways. Toyota on the other hand looks to be going full steam ahead with an artificial manual after the car giant patented the device for its cars.
The patent document states Toyota is developing a “technique for producing a pseudo shift change in a vehicle that transmits torque to wheels from a drive motor.”
But before everything goes electric, Honda has released its Civic Type R which is only offered with a manual gearbox.
