The simulated manual gearbox for EVs first showcased in a Lexus prototype last year could find its way into future Toyota models, complete with fake revving and gear shift sounds. The “manual EV” will be one of the “exciting surprises” Toyota has in store for its next-gen BEV range which is set to debut in 2026.
The automaker announced its future plans during the Toyota Technical Workshop 2023 presentation. Takero Kato, president of the newly established BEV Factory division, said that their goal is to offer their customers a “wow” experience.
More: Toyota Unveils New Electrification Strategy And Plans For 10 Next-Gen EVs By 2026
While other automakers including Dodge and Abarth have already experimented with fake engine sounds in their EVs, Toyota’s system takes things to another level. The goal of the “manual EV” project is to simulate the driving experience of an ICE-powered vehicle, which is absent in EVs largely due to the silent operation.
The vehicles will come with a clutch pedal and a gearshift lever, working exactly like the manual gearbox in a gas-powered vehicle. This means that the EV will make all the sounds associated with the engine revs and the gear changes, feature a special mapping for power delivery, and will even stall when the clutch is not used properly during take-off.
As hinted at by an earlier patent filing, the simulated manual gearbox could also be used in future hybrids, although this could probably be reserved for the performance versions bearing the Gazoo Racing signature.
Next-Gen Toyota BEVs Sound Quite Promising
The next generation of Toyota BEVs will ride on a new modular architecture and promise a driving range of up to 1,000 km (621 miles) thanks to new battery technology. The models – including hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, and minivans – will be designed with the support of Artificial Intelligence for optimum aerodynamics. Furthermore, sophisticated over-the-air updates for the new Arene OS will allow customization of the driving experience – including the fake engine and gearbox noises.
As reported by The Wall Street Journal, Toyota is currently studying how customers might respond to EVs that can simulate the driving experience of ICE-powered vehicles, and how much they are willing to pay for it. Toyota’s Executive Vice President, Hiroki Najajima, said that the company will decide when the manual EV technology can be commercialized based on those factors.
Toyota hopes to sell 3.5 million electric models by 2030, with 1.7 million of those coming from the BEV Factory.