Toyota might be a bit late to the EV (electric vehicle) party but they do look serious. A recent patent filing by the Japanese automaker details a clutch-operated manual transmission to feature in an electric vehicle.
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This is an interesting development considering the fact that transmissions just don’t really have a place in modern EV’s, still Porsche and Audi made use of a 2-speed unit, optimized for better response at lower speeds and increased efficiency at higher speeds. However in Toyota’s patent, there will be a conventional clutch-activated manual transmission with a traditional manual gear selector. According to Toyota:
“The controller of the electric vehicle is configured to control the torque of the electric motor using the MT vehicle model based on the operation amount of the accelerator pedal, the operation amount of the pseudo-clutch pedal, and the shift position of the pseudo-shifter. The electric vehicle also includes a shift reaction force generator that generates a shift reaction force in response to the operation of the pseudo-shifter using by the operating of the reaction force actuator.”
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This probably means Toyota EVs may have a simulated manual transmission giving the feeling of inertia and the back and forth motion associated with changing gears. Is there an exact purpose to this? Likely not, but it seems like a lot of fun, something which Toyota seem to be keen on providing to its customers. The company’s president, Akio Toyoda is an enthusiast and a keen racing driver and he has vowed to add more exciting models to Toyota’s lineup.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
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