|
The demise of manual transmissions could be easily anticipated when ....
1. Modern automatic transmissions began to arrive with up to 10 speeds
2. Emission standards became more stringent, making hybrid technology more popular
It's easier to integrate hybrid powertrains with a modern 8-speed+ automatic transmissions while carefully managing engine's optimum efficiency range and emissions.
The US sales statistics suggest that manual transmissions represent less than 3% of all sales.
|