System uses haptic feedback to simulate friction point and even allows the electric motor to 'die' if operated incorrectly
Subaru has taken a concrete step to keep the manual transmission alive in the age of electrification. The Japanese automaker has filed a patent in the United States that details a manual transmission system designed specifically for electric vehicles, with the aim of reviving the sporty driving dynamics that many purists fear losing with batteries. The document also signals the technical feasibility of the technology for future mass production.
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Unlike a traditional mechanical transmission, where there is a physical decoupling of the engine, the hardware proposed by Subaru is focused entirely on the sensory experience. The system uses a reaction force generator — a tactile feedback device — connected to the pedal.
This technology allows the clutch pedal to act as an advanced electronic control module. Sensors read the pressure applied by the driver, and in response, the pedal vibrates or stiffens to simulate the “friction point” of a real clutch disc connecting to the flywheel.
The level of realism proposed in the patent is high: if the driver releases the clutch too quickly or at low speed, the software can cut torque momentarily, simulating engine “throttling,” or even allow the car to roll backwards on slopes if the pedal is not engaged correctly.
It is worth mentioning that there is no direct mechanical link with the transmission. It is an electronic mimicry of the behavior of combustion cars. In addition, the patent indicates flexibility: the driver will be able to deactivate the system at any time, switching to conventional automatic mode for greater comfort in urban traffic.
Although Subaru has not confirmed which model will debut the system, the Performance-e STI concept is pointed out as the natural candidate, given the need to inherit the visceral spirit of the Impreza STI line.
The move follows a trend in Japanese industry; partner Toyota has already carried out similar tests with an adapted Lexus RZ, suggesting that vehicles with a shared architecture between the brands may be the first to receive the novelty on the streets.
