It's deployable and can function as a sequential shifter or a full-on six-speed stick. Too bad there aren't actual gears to swap.
Electric vehicles have completely different powertrains versus combustion-powered cars, but that's not stopping automakers from trying to mimic the sensations that most drivers are used to. Case in point: Ford's new patent application, published on March 20, reveals the finer points of a good ol' stick shift for EVs. Of course, it's not actually swapping any cogs, but that's not the point.
The patent—titled Shifter Assembly For Electric Vehicle —showcases a properly old-school shift lever mounted in a box. If this was a shifter for, say, a Ford Mustang Dark Horse, it would mount on the transmission tunnel and connect via mechanical linkages to a six-speed gearbox.
Here, it simply sits on a raised section of the floor and bumps into various actuators that are managed by an electronic power controller. According to the patent, this "manages the flow of electrical energy delivered by the battery pack, controlling the speed of the motors and the torque each motor produces."
In other words, as you row the stick fore and aft, signals are sent to alter the output from the vehicle's motor (or motors), mimicking the shifts of a standard transmission. Presumably, that makes your EV slower since output is interrupted, but again, that's not the point.
Ford EV Shifter Patent
Ford isn't alone in trying this idea. Hyundai pioneered it with the Ioniq 5 N , featuring simulated paddle shifters designed to provide gas car-like experiences perfect for a track day or an enjoyable drive on winding roads. Toyota is also exploring a similar approach with their newest model. Lexus RZ , and we have tested prototypes in Japan that utilize a virtual joystick —equipped with a clutch and stall-outs. Nevertheless, it’s uncertain whether the manual shift option will be featured in any production cars; paddle shifts might be more probable for regular use.
Thanks to their instantaneous start without the hindrance of gears, electric vehicles (EVs) are currently the fastest mass-produced cars globally. The focus here is on driver involvement, where EVs fall short compared to models such as a Miata or an older pickup truck with a long stick shift protruding from the floor. These transmissions can be set up for sequential shifting or adhere to a traditional six-speed layout.
In this aspect, Ford’s electric vehicle (EV) shifter isn’t just going through the motions aimlessly. The base includes tiny motors that offer force feedback via the gearshift lever. It can make the stick feel similar to a rough-running 6.2-liter V-8 Camaro engine, and as you shift between gears, it offers a gritty resistance. This feature is somewhat intriguing but also a little corny. Plus, since Most electric vehicles lack transmissions. The complete setup can be stowed away if you prefer regular driving. This feature will surely appeal to those who have previously struggled with moving a large console to switch seating positions.
So far, this idea exists only as a patent. The initial filing dates back to 2023, indicating that Ford has had this concept in mind for quite a while now. It remains uncertain whether it will actually come to pass, but it might serve as an attractive option to draw conventional car lovers towards electric vehicles.
Manual EVs:
- This Vintage Porsche 356A Is Now Electric--But Retains a manual transmission
- Toyota's EV Manual Transmission Compared to Hyundai Ioniq 5 N's Synthetic Dual Clutch: A Comparison
- I Test-Drove Toyota's Manual-Transmission Electric Vehicle. It’s Way More Enjoyable Than You'd Expect.
- Lexus Confirms Manual Transmission for Electric Vehicles; LFA successor might feature it as well.