The manual gearbox, a longstanding component in petrol and diesel vehicles, is on the verge of disappearing according to recent data. An investigation by Auto Express revealed that only 96 new car models are currently available with manual transmission, compared to 404 models that are automatic-only. This represents just over 19% of the overall market.
The decline of manual gearboxes is driven by several factors, primarily customer preferences. While driving enthusiasts prefer the hands-on experience of changing gears, many drivers find automatic cars more relaxing to drive. The rise of electrified vehicles is accelerating this trend, as almost all hybrids and fully electric vehicles operate as automatics.
The Shift Towards Automatic Transmissions
The automotive landscape has dramatically shifted towards automatic transmissions, making manual gearboxes increasingly rare in new vehicles. As manufacturers prioritize automatic gears in their newest models, consumers may face limited options if they prefer to change gears themselves. This marks a significant decline from three years ago when nearly a third of all models were available with manual gearboxes.
According to the UK’s Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, only 22% of new cars sold in 2024 came with manual transmissions. The number of learner drivers taking tests in manual cars has also dropped. Emma Bush, AA Driving School’s managing director, noted that as people become more comfortable with electric vehicles, the need to drive manual vehicles will seem irrelevant to many.
Impact on Driving Preferences
The trend is continuing, with one in five AA Driving School students (21%) passing their practical test in an automatic car in 2024. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the availability of manual gearboxes is likely to become even more limited. This shift reflects changing driver preferences and the growing dominance of electric and automatic vehicles in the market.
