Ford files patent to bring old-school stick shifts to electric vehicles — but Gen Z drivers don’t know how to use them

New York Post - Mar 29th, 2025

Ford is introducing a retro feature to its electric vehicles in the form of manual gear shifters. This move is detailed in a recent patent application that proposes a gear shift designed to mimic traditional stick shifts without actual gear changes. The innovation aims to address complaints from EV users about a lack of driver engagement. The proposed gear shift will simulate the tactile feedback of a manual transmission by providing vibrations and resistance, enhancing the driving experience by allowing control over electricity flow between the car's battery and motor. Other automakers like Hyundai and Toyota are also exploring similar features, indicating a growing trend in the EV market.

The introduction of manual-like gear shifters in electric vehicles reflects broader trends in automotive design, where user experience and engagement are becoming focal points. With only 18% of Americans familiar with stick shifts and just 1% of cars sold in the U.S. featuring manual transmissions, this move may seem counterintuitive but signifies an effort to bridge the gap between traditional driving experiences and modern EV technology. The initiative underscores a significant shift in how car manufacturers are responding to consumer demands for more interactive and engaging driving experiences, even as the industry transitions towards electric mobility.

Electric Vehicles Ford Toyota Hyundai Manual Transmission Driver Engagement Automotive Innovation Ev Market Trends

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.8

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The story effectively highlights Ford's innovative approach to enhancing driver engagement in electric vehicles through a manual-style gear shifter. It provides a clear and timely discussion of industry trends, including similar efforts by Hyundai and Toyota. The article is largely accurate, though it would benefit from more detailed sourcing and transparency, particularly regarding statistics and consumer perspectives. While the topic is engaging and relevant to automotive enthusiasts, its appeal to a broader audience is somewhat limited. Overall, the story succeeds in presenting a coherent narrative about technological advancements in the automotive industry, though it could be strengthened by a more balanced exploration of differing viewpoints and potential challenges.

Accuracy

The story presents several factual claims that align well with existing information. Ford's patent for a manual-style gear shifter in electric vehicles is accurately described, as is the claim about the low percentage of Americans who know how to use a manual transmission. The story also correctly states the low percentage of manual transmission cars sold in the US compared to Europe. However, the claim that only 18% of Americans know how to use a stick shift could benefit from more precise sourcing. The mention of Hyundai and Toyota's similar technologies is consistent with industry trends. Overall, the story is largely accurate but could improve by providing more detailed sourcing for some statistics.

Balance

The story provides a balanced view of the topic by discussing both Ford's innovation and similar efforts by other manufacturers like Hyundai and Toyota. This inclusion of multiple perspectives helps to present a comprehensive picture of the industry's movement towards enhancing driver engagement in electric vehicles. However, the article could have been more balanced by including perspectives from consumers or automotive experts on the potential appeal and practicality of these innovations. Additionally, exploring potential criticisms or challenges faced by manufacturers in implementing these technologies could have provided a more rounded view.

Clarity

The language and structure of the article are clear and concise, making it easy to understand the main points. The story logically progresses from Ford's patent to industry trends, providing a coherent narrative. The use of terms like 'fake EV shifting' and 'Interactive Manual Drive' is well-explained, aiding comprehension. However, the article could benefit from a more detailed explanation of how the proposed technology would function in practice, which would enhance clarity for readers unfamiliar with automotive technology.

Source quality

The story references reputable sources such as The Wall Street Journal and the Daily Mail, which adds credibility. However, it lacks direct quotes or detailed attribution, especially for the statistics provided. The reliance on a patent as a primary source is appropriate for the technical details, but additional expert commentary could enhance the reliability of the story. The mention of reports on Hyundai and Toyota's developments lacks specific source attribution, which could undermine the story's credibility.

Transparency

The article provides some transparency by mentioning the patent and reports from other manufacturers, but it lacks detailed sourcing for its statistics and claims. The methodology behind the statistics about manual transmission knowledge and sales is not disclosed, which affects transparency. Furthermore, the story does not explain the basis for the claim that the gear shift addition is an attempt to mitigate complaints about driver engagement. Greater transparency in these areas would improve the reader's understanding of the story's foundation.