Revolutionary Toyota Electric Car Boasts Manual Transmission

Jacob Brooke
November 1, 2023

As Toyota edges closer to launching its first electric car equipped with a manual transmission, the innovative feature has been revealed to be an optional factory addition for the forthcoming generation of Toyota EVs. The software-based system has been developed over three years and aims to ensure electric cars maintain the fun and involvement associated with internal combustion engines.

Toyota FT-Se Concept

The manual transmission will debut in the production version of the FT-Se sports car, expected to hit the production lines in 2026. The system operates almost entirely on software, with physical components limited to a clutch pedal and gearshift borrowed from the Toyota GR86, plus a rev counter and new switchgear to select the mode. Additionally, paddle shifts are a possible feature.

GR86 Gearbox and Clutch fitted to a Lexus UX300e
Credit - AutoCar.co.uk

Driving Toyota's manual BEV is an experience designed to trick the driver into forgetting they are in an electric vehicle. With the push of a button, the car produces the engine sound of a Volkswagen Golf GTI, adding to the immersive experience. The short, precise gearshift and the heft of the clutch, combined with features like engine braking and coasting, provide a tactile and engaging driving experience that is often lacking in electric vehicles.

Credit - AutoCar.co.uk

Engineers at Toyota have designed the manual transmission system as a response to Chairman Akio Toyoda's call for electric cars to be more than just a "commodity" and to offer a fun, engaging drive. With this innovative system, Toyota is pioneering a new era of electric vehicles that promise to deliver a thrilling driving experience, proving that electric cars can indeed be as exciting and involving as their internal combustion engine counterparts.

Thanks to AutoCar for the images.

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Jacob Brooke
Jacob Brooke, a respected voice in the world of automotive journalism, brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to his reviews at CarSauce. His keen eye for detail and passion for all things cars shine through in his in-depth analysis and honest evaluations of the latest models of cars. Join him as he guides readers through the car-buying process and explores the exciting world of motoring.

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