In a recent announcement during the Toyota Technical Workshop 2023 presentation, Toyota revealed its plans to incorporate a simulated manual gearbox for electric vehicles (EVs) in its upcoming models. This innovative feature, initially showcased in a Lexus prototype last year, aims to provide a unique and immersive driving experience by replicating the feel and sounds of a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle.
Takero Kato, president of Toyota’s newly established BEV Factory division, expressed the company’s ambition to offer customers a remarkable driving experience that elicits a “wow” factor. The simulated manual gearbox system will be one of the exciting surprises included in Toyota’s next-generation BEV range, which is scheduled for debut in 2026.
While some automakers have already experimented with simulated engine sounds in their EVs, Toyota intends to take this concept to another level. The primary objective of the “manual EV” project is to recreate the driving sensations that are absent in EVs due to their silent operation. Toyota’s system will feature a clutch pedal and gearshift lever, mirroring the mechanics of a traditional manual transmission in a gasoline-powered vehicle. This means that the EV will generate engine revs and gear shift sounds, offer power delivery mapping tailored to the driving experience, and even simulate stalling if the clutch is not used properly during take-off.
Furthermore, a previously filed patent suggests that the simulated manual gearbox could potentially be employed in future hybrid models, likely reserved for performance variants carrying the Gazoo Racing signature.
The next generation of Toyota BEVs will be built on a new modular architecture and boast an impressive driving range of up to 1,000 km (621 miles), thanks to advancements in battery technology. These models, which encompass hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, and minivans, will be designed using Artificial Intelligence to optimize aerodynamics. Additionally, the new Arene OS will facilitate sophisticated over-the-air updates, enabling drivers to customize their driving experience, including the simulated engine and gearbox noises.
Toyota is reportedly studying consumer responses to EVs that can replicate the driving experience of ICE-powered vehicles, as well as gauging their willingness to pay for such features. Hiroki Najajima, Toyota’s Executive Vice President, stated that the decision to commercialize the manual EV technology will depend on these crucial factors.
With ambitious goals in mind, Toyota aims to sell 3.5 million electric models by 2030, with 1.7 million of those units coming from the BEV Factory. By combining cutting-edge technology, intuitive design, and a unique driving experience, Toyota seeks to contribute to the growing adoption of electric vehicles in the automotive industry.
