Good news for sports car fans that favor rowing their own gears in the US. BMW M head Frank van Meel has confirmed that the next generation of M cars will have manual transmission offerings. The exec says that manuals will be able to carry on until automation takes over.
The Future of Manual Transmissions
The manual and autonomous tech don’t go together, and that will likely be the end of the manual. Van Meel told Car & Driver, “The bad news is that if we one day have autonomous cars, then the manual cannot work anymore. So that would be, let’s say, the natural end. But that’s still some time away.” This statement highlights a significant shift in the automotive industry, where the rise of autonomous vehicles could eventually phase out manual transmissions. However, for now, enthusiasts can still enjoy the tactile experience of shifting gears themselves.
Why Manuals are Still Popular in the US
As for why the manual is carrying on in the US, lots of buyers want them. Van Meel says that the take rate on the manual in the M2, for instance, is 50% in the US. If the demand is there, van Meel wants to meet it. This high demand for manual transmissions in the US can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, many driving enthusiasts believe that manual transmissions offer a more engaging and enjoyable driving experience. The ability to control the gear shifts allows for a more connected feel to the car, which is something that automatic transmissions cannot replicate.
Moreover, manual transmissions are often seen as a rite of passage for new drivers. Learning to drive a manual car is considered a valuable skill, and many driving schools still teach it. This cultural aspect helps keep the demand for manual cars alive.
Another reason for the continued popularity of manual transmissions in the US is the perception of better performance and fuel efficiency. While modern automatic transmissions have made significant strides in these areas, many drivers still believe that manuals offer superior control and efficiency, especially in performance-oriented vehicles like the BMW M series.
Additionally, manual transmissions are generally less expensive to manufacture and maintain. This cost-effectiveness can make them an attractive option for both car manufacturers and buyers. For instance, the simplicity of a manual gearbox means fewer components that can fail, leading to potentially lower repair costs over the vehicle’s lifespan.
However, it’s not just about cost and performance. The manual transmission has a certain nostalgic value. Many car enthusiasts grew up driving manuals and have fond memories associated with them. This emotional connection can be a powerful factor in the decision to purchase a manual car.
Despite the rise of advanced automatic and semi-automatic transmissions, the manual gearbox continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many drivers. BMW’s decision to continue offering manual transmissions in their M cars is a testament to this enduring appeal. It shows that even in an age of rapid technological advancement, there is still room for traditional driving experiences.
In conclusion, while the future may eventually see the decline of manual transmissions due to the rise of autonomous vehicles, for now, they remain a beloved feature among driving enthusiasts in the US. BMW’s commitment to offering manuals in their next generation of M cars ensures that this cherished driving experience will continue for the foreseeable future.
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