USA: Cars with manual gearboxes are slowly making a comeback

The slow shift back to manual gearboxes can also be attributed to the EV transition.

According to reports, cars with manual transmissions are slowly witnessing a renewed interest in the US market. The sales of manual transmission cars had dipped below 1% of all auto sales in the USA in 2021. However, the percentage grew to 1.2% in 2022 and has further increased to 1.7% in 2023.

Reports state that the renewed interest in manual transmissions can be attributed towards their engaging driving experience. There are also other reports that indicate that parents prefer manual transmission cars for their teenagers as it prevents them from using their phones while driving. Another report also mentions that car buyers who are in their twenties are the ones most commonly opting for manual gearboxes.

The slow shift back to manual gearboxes can also be attributed to the EV transition. Since EVs essentially eliminate the need for a manual gearbox, many people are seeking them out now, before they are completely gone.

Having said that, carmakers are working on keeping manual gearboxes alive. Companies like Toyota have announced that they will keep offering manual gearboxes as an option across many of their models, including the upcoming Tacoma. The Japanese carmaker recently introduced a 6-speed manual transmission on its GR Supra.

Carmakers are also working on offering manual gearbox tech for its EVs in the near future.

Source: Jalopnik