Honda has long been synonymous with high-quality manual transmissions as we once again experienced in our recent Honda Civic Si review. For decades, enthusiasts have raved about the tactile connection a Honda manual offers—whether behind the wheel of a Civic Type R or the legendary S2000. But as the industry moves towards electric vehicles (EVs), it raises a question: is there still a place for manual transmissions in a world where gears aren’t required?
Recent developments hint that Honda might not be ready to let go of its manual transmission legacy just yet.
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At a recent event showcasing Honda’s future “0 Series” of EVs, the automaker revealed something that could stir excitement among purists. Honda has been testing a synthetic manual transmission—complete with a clutch pedal—for its upcoming electric vehicles. This innovative system aims to simulate the experience of driving a traditional manual car in an EV, a concept that might sound odd at first but could be a game-changer for the driving experience in electric cars.
This is a notable shift in Honda’s stance. Back in 2022, Honda’s CEO, Toshihiro Mibe, expressed doubts about creating a simulated manual for EVs. He wasn’t sure if a manual transmission could be effectively replicated. However, Shinji Aoyama, head of Honda’s electrification efforts, was more optimistic. He mentioned that while it wouldn’t be easy to mechanically recreate a manual transmission, it could be done artificially.
The synthetic manual gearbox is more than just a gimmick. It’s part of a broader system designed to bring back some of the emotional appeal associated with driving manual performance cars. Think of it as an extension of active sound control, similar to what Hyundai has done with its Ioniq 5 N. This system can generate synthetic engine noises and gear changes to enhance the driving experience inside the cabin.
At a test drive event in Japan, journalists were given the chance to try out Honda’s e Digital UX Concept, equipped with the synthetic manual. The system allowed drivers to choose sound profiles that mimicked the engine tones of iconic Honda models like the NSX, Civic Type R, and even the S2000. While the fake shifter might not have the exact tactile feedback of Honda’s famous manuals, the experience aims to evoke the spirit of those cars.
Despite the buzz around the synthetic manual transmission, Honda hasn’t confirmed if it will make it to market. Just because they’ve built a working prototype doesn’t guarantee that we’ll see it in showrooms. However, it’s clear that Honda sees potential in this technology, especially for performance-oriented EVs.
The idea isn’t really all that new. Toyota has also been exploring manual transmissions for EVs. This signals a possible trend where automakers try to bring back some of the “fun-to-drive” elements that many fear will be lost in the transition to electric powertrains.
For many driving enthusiasts, the manual transmission represents a deeper connection to the vehicle. It’s not just about shifting gears—it’s about control, engagement, and the joy of driving. EVs, with their instant torque and single-speed transmissions, have been criticized for being too clinical and lacking character. Honda’s synthetic manual could provide a solution that satisfies both the performance purists and the practicalities of modern EVs.
Of course, this feature would likely be optional and defeatable. In stop-and-go traffic, few drivers want to deal with a clutch pedal. But when you’re on an open road or track, it could offer an experience that makes driving an EV more thrilling.
The concept of a synthetic manual transmission raises several questions. Will drivers embrace it? Can it capture the essence of the traditional manuals that so many love? And more importantly, will Honda decide to move forward with this idea?
As the EV landscape evolves, features like this could become key differentiators for automakers looking to appeal to performance enthusiasts. Whether it’s Honda, Toyota, or another automaker, the future of driving might not be as “automatic” as we once thought.
Honda’s exploration of a manual transmission for electric vehicles shows that the shift to EVs doesn’t have to mean the end of driving excitement. If they can perfect this technology, they might be able to capture the hearts of enthusiasts who are wary of the all-electric future.
Source: The Drive
