Revolutionary Toyota Electric Car Boasts Manual Transmission

Revolutionary Toyota Electric Car Boasts Manual Transmission
Want a great rate on your next car?
Enquire now
Matt Brand pointing to the buy menuJacob Brooke pointing to the buy menu

As Toyota edges closer to launching its first electric car equipped with a manual transmission, the innovative feature has been revealed to be an optional factory addition for the forthcoming generation of Toyota EVs. The software-based system has been developed over three years and aims to ensure electric cars maintain the fun and involvement associated with internal combustion engines.

Toyota FT-Se Concept

The manual transmission will debut in the production version of the FT-Se sports car, expected to hit the production lines in 2026. The system operates almost entirely on software, with physical components limited to a clutch pedal and gearshift borrowed from the Toyota GR86, plus a rev counter and new switchgear to select the mode. Additionally, paddle shifts are a possible feature.

GR86 Gearbox and Clutch fitted to a Lexus UX300e
Credit - AutoCar.co.uk

Driving Toyota's manual BEV is an experience designed to trick the driver into forgetting they are in an electric vehicle. With the push of a button, the car produces the engine sound of a Volkswagen Golf GTI, adding to the immersive experience. The short, precise gearshift and the heft of the clutch, combined with features like engine braking and coasting, provide a tactile and engaging driving experience that is often lacking in electric vehicles.

Credit - AutoCar.co.uk

Engineers at Toyota have designed the manual transmission system as a response to Chairman Akio Toyoda's call for electric cars to be more than just a "commodity" and to offer a fun, engaging drive. With this innovative system, Toyota is pioneering a new era of electric vehicles that promise to deliver a thrilling driving experience, proving that electric cars can indeed be as exciting and involving as their internal combustion engine counterparts.

Thanks to AutoCar for the images.

Are you interested in a
Toyota
and looking for the best price?

FAQ

keyboard_arrow_down

keyboard_arrow_down

keyboard_arrow_down

keyboard_arrow_down

keyboard_arrow_down

keyboard_arrow_down

Find your perfect car with ease – click for a free, seamless journey with CarSauce and Motor Scout!
Jacob Brooke
Jacob Brooke joined CarSauce in 2022, starting as a videographer and video editor. With a strong foundation in Computer Science from Monash University, Jacob played a key role in the business's dramatic growth, which allowed him to transition into a full-time position as Head of Digital. His expertise lies in building and optimising the CarSauce website and enhancing the brand's digital presence. Jacob is also a regular part of the YouTube reviews, where he adds humor and friendly banter with Matt, thanks to their long-standing friendship. Together, they create engaging and informative content that keeps their audience coming back for more.
Read more

Other

Toyota

News

This Toyota People Mover Could Be Coming to Australia

This Toyota People Mover Could Be Coming to Australia

A trademark has been registered by Toyota for the "ESTIMA" which could herald the arrival of a new people mover in the Australian market.
Jack MacKenzie
Jul 15, 2025 7:32 PM
Toyota Corolla Cross Gains GR Upgrades with Australian Prices Unveiled

Toyota Corolla Cross Gains GR Upgrades with Australian Prices Unveiled

2026 Toyota Corolla Cross Australian prices start at $37,440 before on-road costs with the GR Sport topping the range.
Jack MacKenzie
Jun 30, 2025 2:24 PM
Special Edition Toyota GR Supra Set for July Arrival

Special Edition Toyota GR Supra Set for July Arrival

The Track Edition is set to arrive as the Australian flagship of the Supra range and a swansong for the outgoing generation.
Jack MacKenzie
Jun 27, 2025 4:57 PM

Other car news

Subaru's New Electric SUV Has Just Been Revealed

Subaru's New Electric SUV Has Just Been Revealed

The Subaru Uncharted electric compact SUV has been unveiled in the United States although plans for Australia remain unconfirmed.
Jack MacKenzie
Jul 18, 2025 2:27 PM
The Long-Wheelbase Tesla Model Y Coming for the Chinese Market

The Long-Wheelbase Tesla Model Y Coming for the Chinese Market

The Tesla Model Y L is a long-wheelbase version of the electric SUV releasing in China with an Australian release yet to be confirmed.
Jack MacKenzie
Jul 18, 2025 10:11 AM
Polestar 3 Recalled Over Bumper Wiring Harness Issue

Polestar 3 Recalled Over Bumper Wiring Harness Issue

The Polestar 3 electric SUV has been recalled in Australia with an issue affecting 172 vehicles built between 2024 and 2025.
Jack MacKenzie
Jul 17, 2025 5:48 PM

Sign up to our newsletter

Be the first to know when we drop new car reviews.

By clicking Sign Up you're confirming that you agree with our Terms and Conditions.
Thank you! Welcome to the Car Sauce community!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
© 2024 Car Sauce. All right reserved.
Privacy Policy
Cookie Policy
Terms and Conditions