Porsche’s last shot at saving the manual? A Koenigsegg-inspired auto mode on the way

A recent patent application from Porsche has been doing rounds over the internet, amassing endless attention from enthusiasts. The reason behind the chatter is the stark fact that this could be the last resort by a manufacturer to save the manual transmission from vanishing. The new filing, taken from the German Patent and Trademark Office, reveals a new transmission which will allow enthusiastic drivers to be able to easily use the traditional H-pattern whenever they want to shift gears themselves.

While the new transmission is essentially an automatic unit, to ensure that it offers the zeal associated with shifting and having control over the vehicle when on track, it also has an H-pattern layout. Koenigsegg had launched a similar system on its older CC850 hypercar a few years ago.

The CC850 transmission offers a six-speed gated manual along with an automatic nine-speed. This system also had a clutch pedal, but it seems that Porsche would not have a clutch pedal.

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Traditional appeal with modern tech

Going by the details revealed by the patent document, the system that Porsche has been working on does not have any mechanical linkages; rather, it operates by shift-by-wire technology, creating less of an issue with the higher torque figures. These higher torque figures have always been a limiting factor over a car's performance, and inclusion of an automatic transmission makes it easier to handle.

Porsche’s reputation for manual transmission

Porsche has a sprawling reputation for slick manual transmissions; hence, it is no surprise that Porsche is undertaking profound steps to ensure that the new technology meets the expectation that it has set with its manual transmissions. The patent documents also reveal that the system has various sensors to detect the angle of the gear lever, plus electric motors and springs, just to help the vehicle recreate the feeling of a traditional mechanism.

Despite being renowned for its automatic PDK transmission across its internal combustion range of cars, Porsche is one of the few carmakers who still offer manual gearboxes. While the track-focused GT3 RS is not available with a manual, a few other variants such as the GT3, Carrera T, Boxster, and Cayman can still be opted for with a manual transmission.

Why are manual systems vanishing?

The expanding market and the need for vehicles that are easier to drive for wider market applicability put manual systems at a disadvantage. New drivers and older folks are a significant part of first-time buyers, and automatic transmissions help manufacturers appeal to such customers. Beyond that, the rise of electric vehicles, as well as the decline of manual gearbox usage in sports cars, further adds to the decline in manual gearboxes.