The once popular feature quickly vanishing from new cars as EV sales rise

The once popular feature quickly vanishing from new cars as EV sales rise

  • 5 hours ago
  • express.co.uk
  • Keywords: manual transmissions, automatic transmissions

Manual gearboxes are rapidly declining in new UK cars due to rising EV sales and automatic transmissions becoming standard. Experts predict manual cars could vanish entirely by 2037, though high-performance models like the Honda Civic Type R and Mazda MX-5 still offer this feature for enthusiasts.

Honda News
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Context

Analysis of Market Trends and Business Insights: Decline of Manual Gearboxes in New Cars

Key Facts and Data Points:

  • Decline Rate: The number of new car models with manual gearboxes has declined by 57% since 2015.
  • Market Prediction: Experts predict that manual gearboxes will disappear entirely from new cars in the UK by 2037.
  • Consumer Sentiment: Only 28% of surveyed Brits stated they would miss having a manual gearbox.

Market Trends:

  • Shift to Electric and Hybrid Vehicles: The rise in EV and hybrid sales is driving the decline, as these vehicles do not require conventional gears.
  • Automatic Transmission Standardization: Automatic gearboxes are becoming standard features across all vehicle segments, reducing the need for manual transmissions.
  • Luxury vs. Affordable Market: While luxury brands have long abandoned manual gearboxes, budget-friendly models like the Dacia Duster and Kia Sportage still offer conventional transmissions.

Competitive Dynamics:

  • Performance Segment: High-performance vehicles like the Honda Civic Type R and Mazda MX-5 continue to prioritize manual transmissions for their driving experience.
  • Used Market Impact: Manual transmissions remain popular in the used car market, particularly for low-cost city cars and superminis such as the Citroen C3 and Hyundai i10.

Strategic Considerations:

  • Consumer Preferences: Automakers are focusing on meeting demand for ease of use and modern driving experiences, shifting away from traditional manual gearboxes.
  • Regulatory Pressures: Emissions standards and a push toward zero-emission vehicles further accelerate the decline of manual transmissions.

Long-Term Effects:

  • Driving Skills Decline: A potential reduction in drivers skilled in manual transmissions could impact future car design and training programs.
  • Market Segmentation: Automakers may increasingly cater to niche markets for performance enthusiasts while focusing on mainstream automatic and electric vehicle adoption.