VW considering manual transmission, sound for EVs

• VW has tested a manual transmission for EVs
• EVs that make sound are on the table at VW
• An electric GTI and Golf R won’t arrive until the end of the decade

The manual transmission might not die at Volkswagen in the electric era.

On Thursday at the 2024 LA Auto Show, Kai Grünitz, head of global research and development for Volkswagen, told Motor Authority the automaker has tested a manual transmission for EVs.

However, the executive said he didn’t like the transmission. Grünitz said he likes the smoothness of EVs and their lack of sound. He noted that it makes sense to stick to one gear.

But when asked if the manual would work for something like an electric GTI or Golf R,  he replied, “this is an option,” and referred to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.

Grünitz said he believes the “GTI has to create emotions,” and for that “you need sound.” Again, noting how the Ioniq 5 N has simulated both gear changes and sounds.

Grünitz threw out the idea of a “GTI Mode” for the EV iteration of the icon. Such a mode could produce sound and “other functionalities” that would “remind you of a sporty vehicle,” he said.

Toyota has already patented a manual transmission for electric cars, and it will be featured in the electric Lexus LFA successor. GM’s also working on a clutch for electric car transmissions.

VW’s sister brand, Porsche, considered simulated shifts but views them as making EVs worse.

Grünitz found the Ioniq 5 N “interesting” to drive, but said he wouldn’t want to use it for his everyday life. But if customer demand is there, “we will also provide sounds,” Grünitz said.

If the future electric GTI does make sounds, Grünitz said the automaker would implement it differently than Hyundai, but he wouldn’t discuss how.

Electric iterations of the Golf, GTI, and Golf R aren’t due until the next of the decade on the SSP (Scalable System Platform) architecture, Grünitz reconfirmed.