Honda is testing a manual transmission for EVs

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Manual vs. Automatic in ICE Cars

  • Many commenters strongly prefer manuals for engagement, control, and “mechanical empathy,” likening it to using power-user tools or Linux: more work, more understanding, more satisfaction.
  • Others value automatics for comfort and reduced cognitive load, especially in heavy traffic, on long highway trips, or with physical limitations.
  • Several note region differences: manuals long dominant in Europe, but automatics are rising; in the US, manuals are rare and often harder and more expensive to source.
  • Some point out manuals used to be cheaper, lighter, and more fuel-efficient, but modern multi-gear automatics (8–10 speeds, dual-clutch, lockup torque converters) can now be more efficient and faster-shifting.

How This Relates to EVs

  • EVs typically use a single fixed reduction gear since electric motors deliver useful torque across a wide speed range; transmissions mainly compensate for ICE limitations.
  • Some technical discussion clarifies that EV motors do have torque curves, but they’re flatter; early EVs and heavy-duty electric vehicles have used multi-speed gearboxes.
  • A few note specific limitations (e.g., top speed on a Nissan Leaf) where an extra real gear could help, but this is seen as niche.

Honda’s “Synthetic Manual” and Skeuomorphism

  • The discussed Honda system is described as a simulated manual: fake gear behavior paired with synthetic engine sound, not a mechanical gearbox.
  • Many see this as a pure gimmick or “skeuomorph” (a fake carry-over from obsolete tech), comparable to fake engine sounds already used in some ICE cars.
  • Critics argue it needlessly limits EV performance and mimics ICE quirks instead of exploiting EV strengths.
  • Supporters counter that some drivers genuinely enjoy shifting and would value a convincing simulation, much like riding horses for pleasure despite cars existing.

Driving Dynamics & Preferences

  • Some emphasize manual-like control for hills, narrow roads, and tricky terrain; others argue modern automatics and EVs (with regen paddles) already give sufficient or superior control.
  • A recurring theme: for enthusiasts, “fun” and engagement justify complexity; for many daily drivers, simplicity and low effort matter more.