In recent years, manual transmissions are rapidly disappearing from the new car market.

But Andreas Proininger, head of Porsche's GT models, told motor1 that despite the wave of electrification, theStrong will to protect traditional gearboxes.It seems.

In this article, we will use Mr. Preininger's words to delve into Porsche's enthusiasm for the manual transmission and the unexpected benefits it brings.

Porsche lineup with manual settings remaining

Today, many automakers are discontinuing or reducing manual transmissions, and there are only a few manual cars available in Japan. In such a situation, Porsche offers manual transmission options throughout its lineup of gasoline-powered sports cars, from the 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman to the 911 Carrera T and the GT3.

However, with the 718 going electric later this year (planned), the 911 is expected to be the only manual model.

Mr. Proininger said.In my personal opinion, the manual transmission is very importantHe said.
He understands that PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) is faster, but prefers manual as a driver's car. Even when driving on a circuit, he feels pleasure in operating the gears by himself. At the heart of the Porsche car is the joy of the driver taking the initiative in operating the car. Mr. Proininger's words strongly reflect this philosophy.

Surprising Advantages of Manual Transmission

Mr. Proininger's commitment to manual transmissions is not just about the fun of driving.

He believes that manuals will also be effective in complying with stricter emission regulations. Manuals are lightweight, which contributes to better fuel economy and reduced emissions," he said. Also,Internal resistance of manual gearbox is significantly lower than PDKTherefore, more power is transferred to the wheel," he states.

In other words, in the real world, manual cars consume less fuel and produce fewer emissions than PDK cars. This is a surprising fact, but it suggests that for a sports car brand like Porsche, the manual transmission plays an important role in combining environmental performance and driving pleasure.

In fact, in terms of 911 GT3 sales in 2022, manual models accounted for nearly 50% of the total sales in some countries, although there are differences among countries.
This shows the deep-rooted popularity of manual transmissions among Porsche customers. While many automakers are focusing on electrification and automated driving technology, Porsche values manual transmissions, a technology that in some ways goes against the times.

This is not a mere nostalgia, but an attitude of pursuing the essential pleasure of operating a car.

The Future of Manuals in the Age of Electricity

There is no worry that the current Porsche sports cars will discontinue the manual transmission.

However, Porsche is in the process of electrification,Denies developing the ability to simulate a manual transmission in an electric vehicle (EV)While BMW and Ford continue to make sports cars with manual transmissions, Mercedes-AMG, Ferrari, and Lamborghini have already discontinued their manual models. Porsche's continued commitment to manuals sets it apart from other manufacturers.

The wave of electrification is transforming the entire automotive industry.

However, Porsche is one of theTrying to protect the universal value of "driving pleasure."The The manual transmission is a symbol of this. For Porsche drivers, the manual transmission is not just a gearbox, but an important element for interacting with the car and enjoying the driving experience itself. Mr. Proininger's words indicate that Porsche will continue to adhere to this philosophy and protect the manual transmission. This news is a ray of hope not only for Porsche owners, but for everyone who loves cars.

What Porsche continues to protect

In this article, based on the words of Andreas Proininger, head of the Porsche GT division, we explain Porsche's enthusiasm for manual transmissions and their unexpected benefits.

In this age of accelerating electrification, Porsche's emphasis on manual transmissions is not merely a matter of nostalgia, but an expression of the company's pursuit of the universal value of the joy of driving a car.For Porsche drivers, the manual transmission is more than just a component; it symbolizes a sense of oneness with the car and the joy of driving.We hope that Porsche will continue to follow that philosophy and keep the manual transmission alive in the future.

The Porsche car is more than just a means of transportation; it is a driver's passion.
At the root of this is the pleasure of human beings taking the initiative in controlling the car, as is the case with a manual transmission. The 981 Boxster GTS manual transmission is my favorite of all the Porsches in my family.

I believe that these values will never be lost even as Porsche moves toward electrification.