While some automakers aim to reduce the number of pedals to just one in electric vehicles, Ford seems to be taking a different approach—by adding a third pedal.
Earlier this week, the American automaker filed a rather unusual patent: a manual transmission specifically designed for electric vehicles. Unlike internal combustion engines, electric motors don’t theoretically require a transmission to optimize efficiency. However, several manufacturers have started developing automatic transmissions for EVs to enhance driving dynamics and make them more engaging.
A More Exciting Driving Experience
There was a time when people chose manual transmissions because they were the cheaper option. Today, things have changed—manual gearboxes are now mostly found in performance vehicles. They provide better control over the car and engine RPM, and for many driving purists, it remains the ultimate way to connect with a vehicle. Clearly, manual transmissions still hold value, as many enthusiasts continue to prefer them.
Ford’s patent shows a gear lever similar to traditional manual cars, connected to multiple actuators that allow gear shifting. However, there are no physical gears or a third pedal—yet. Instead, Ford aims to recreate the same driving pleasure found in an automatic transmission with a manual mode. The system would function like a sequential gearbox, providing an engaging experience while still relying on electronic controls rather than physical gear changes.
A Simulated Shifting Experience
The idea is for the driver to control the electric motor’s rotational speed and torque by adjusting the current sent to the motors. Essentially, gear shifts would be simulated rather than mechanically necessary. This isn’t necessarily a drawback—other brands have already developed similar solutions using continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), and the results have sometimes been impressive.
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