Ford brings manual transmission back to electric cars with revolutionary new gear shifter
Ford made an unexpected move in the world of electric vehicles by patenting a unique system that simulates a manual transmission. This innovative device allows electric car drivers to experience the familiar joy of shifting gears, combining the classic driving pleasure with modern future technologies.
How Ford’s revolutionary shifter works
Ford’s new patent titled ‘Shifter Assembly For Electric Vehicle’ presents an innovative manual transmission simulation system that includes a classic gear lever, built-in electric motors, and special software to create maximally realistic driving sensations.
According to InsideEVs, the patent documentation, published on March 20, describes a traditional gear lever mounted on the vehicle’s floor, similar to the classic Ford Mustang. However, instead of mechanically connecting to the transmission, the device sends electronic signals to a controller that manages the electric motor’s torque.
The system’s distinctive feature is its built-in small electric motors that create realistic resistance when shifting gears. The electronic controller regulates torque delivery and simulates characteristic power interruptions typical of internal combustion engine vehicles.
Unlike competing solutions from Hyundai Ioniq 5 N with paddle shifters and Toyota’s experimental clutch simulator development, Ford focused on creating a full mechanical experience with a traditional gear shifter. The patent application was filed in 2023, indicating long-term concept development.
While the system doesn’t change the actual gear ratios of the electric motor, it provides realistic tactile feedback when shifting gears. Currently, the company hasn’t disclosed plans for implementing this technology in series production.
Ford’s innovation demonstrates how automakers are adapting to the electric era while maintaining an emotional connection with classic driving. Although it’s just a patent for now, it opens up interesting prospects for future electric vehicles where traditional control elements can gain new life.
