From Motor1 · Anthony Alaniz · · 50s
Manual Corvette Won't Return Soon
Chevrolet's C8 Corvette lacks a manual transmission, and the automaker won't bring it back.
In brief
Chevrolet's C8 Corvette lacks a manual transmission, and the automaker won't bring it back. Chevrolet won't reintroduce a manual transmission for the C8 Corvette due to cost and design constraints. Originally reported by Motor1.
Quick answers
- Why No Manual Transmission?
- The C8's mid-engine layout made it impossible to carry over the old manual transmission design.
- What is the key takeaway from Manual Corvette Won't Return Soon?
- Chevrolet won't reintroduce a manual transmission for the C8 Corvette due to cost and design constraints.
C8 Corvette No Manual Transmission
Chevrolet's C8 Corvette lacks a manual transmission option for the first time in its 67-year history.
“It was mostly paid for; we were doing slight upgrades on it, and it cost reasonable amounts of money to keep it in production.”
Why No Manual Transmission?
The C8's mid-engine layout made it impossible to carry over the old manual transmission design.
“The C8's mid-engine layout didn't let Chevy keep using that gearbox, requiring an all-new transmission design the automaker couldn't justify.”
Manual Transmission Future
More automakers will adopt automatic transmissions that operate like traditional manuals.
“The future of the manual transmission will follow the same path as engine noise being piped into the cabin through the speakers, it will be artificial.”
Current Manual Options
The cheapest car with a manual transmission is the Mazda MX-5 Miata at $31,000 with 70 percent of buyers choosing the gearbox.
“The cheapest car on sale today with a manual is the Mazda MX-5 Miata for just over $31,000, with about 70 percent of buyers choosing the gearbox.”
Automakers' Manual Plans
Koenigsegg, Ferrari, and Porsche have developed simulated manual transmissions using automatic systems.
“Koenigsegg’s Light Speed Transmission and Engage Shift System does this, offering both a nine-speed automatic and a six-speed manual within the same gearbox.”
The headline
Chevrolet won't reintroduce a manual transmission for the C8 Corvette due to cost and design constraints.
