Automobile manufacturers are increasingly discontinuing manual transmissions, a trend that even extends to boutique luxury brands such as Ferrari and Lamborghini that have ceased to provide this option. Aston Martin is no exception, having eliminated manual transmissions from its standard vehicle offerings. The final model to offer a manual gearbox was the Vantage, but its forthcoming redesigned variant is anticipated to feature only an automatic transmission.
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Aston Martin has not entirely closed the door on manual transmissions. The luxury automaker may continue to produce limited-edition vehicles equipped with manual gearboxes, exemplified by the recently debuted Valour, of which only 110 units will be manufactured. Each will be outfitted with a V-12 engine coupled with a 6-speed manual transmission.
Simon Newton, Aston Martin’s Director of Vehicle Attribute and Performance, alluded to the potential for future manual special editions during an interview with Top Gear. “Should the business trajectory align, it would be a gratifying endeavor to continue the development of manual transmissions,” Newton stated.
These sentiments were corroborated by Marek Reichman, Aston Martin’s Chief Creative Officer, who added, “When global trends veer in a certain direction, there inevitably exists a market segment that desires the contrary. In a world moving toward electrification and automation, there remains a demand for distinctiveness.”
Notably, it’s not just the manual transmission that Aston Martin is considering preserving. The company also appears committed to the internal combustion engine for the foreseeable future, even as it plans to transition towards electric vehicles. Electric motors, which generate peak torque instantaneously, eliminate the need for multiple gears, making them incompatible with manual transmissions.
In line with broader industry shifts, Aston Martin is planning a move toward electrification. However, the automaker stated in 2021 that it anticipates a small portion of its future portfolio—around 5%—to still feature gasoline engines, albeit limited to track use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Aston Martin Manual Transmissions
What is the primary focus of the text?
The primary focus of the text is to discuss Aston Martin’s consideration to continue offering manual transmissions in its limited-edition models, even as the broader automotive industry moves towards automatic and electric vehicles.
Is Aston Martin completely phasing out manual transmissions?
No, Aston Martin has not completely phased out manual transmissions. While they have been removed from the standard production lineup, the company is considering offering them in exclusive, limited-edition models.
Who from Aston Martin commented on the future of manual transmissions?
Simon Newton, Aston Martin’s Director of Vehicle Attribute and Performance, and Marek Reichman, Aston Martin’s Chief Creative Officer, both made statements suggesting the company’s openness to continuing manual transmissions in special editions.
What is the Aston Martin Valour?
The Aston Martin Valour is a limited-edition model that features a manual transmission. Only 110 units of this model will be produced, each equipped with a V-12 engine and a 6-speed manual gearbox.
Does Aston Martin plan to fully transition to electric vehicles?
While Aston Martin has plans to move towards electrification, the company stated in 2021 that it expects about 5% of its future lineup to still feature gasoline engines, primarily for track use.
What is the company’s stance on internal combustion engines?
Aston Martin appears committed to preserving internal combustion engines, at least for the foreseeable future, particularly as they are compatible with manual transmissions. This commitment exists alongside the company’s plans to partially transition to electric vehicles.
What market demand is Aston Martin responding to?
According to Marek Reichman, Aston Martin’s Chief Creative Officer, there exists a market segment that seeks distinctiveness and opposes mainstream trends. In a world moving towards electrification and automation, there remains a demand for manual transmissions and internal combustion engines.
More about Aston Martin Manual Transmissions
- Aston Martin Official Website
- Top Gear Interview with Simon Newton and Marek Reichman
- 2021 Aston Martin Electrification Plans
- Overview of Automotive Industry Trends Toward Electrification
- History of Manual Transmissions in Luxury Cars
7 comments
ok but when are they going full electric? 5% gas engines seems like a step back if you ask me.
Limited editions huh. Guess you gotta be loaded to enjoy the classics these days.
Aston stickin to its roots, love it! Who needs an automatic when you can feel the road?
Aston Martin needs to focus more on electric, their clinging to the past.
Valour with a V-12 and manual? Sign me up, that’s what luxury should feel like.
Simon Newton and Marek Reichman, you guys are the real MVPs for keepin the manual dream alive.
Wow, Aston Martin keeping manuals alive? That’s some good news for gearheads like me!