The move to EVs has a fair share of challenges for automakers and consumers alike, but Toyota has a plan for at least one of those pain points. The automaker filed eight patents for mechanisms designed to be comforting for drivers used to manual gearboxes or just enjoy the feel of one. While EV engines have no need for a manual transmission, Toyota, among other automakers, is looking to capture the look and feel of the manual shifter with a "pseudo" clutch and shifter.
Just a joystick in the cupholder? The system will not be just for show, the driver will be able to adjust the electric motor's torque using the system. Potential features also include a clutch pedal that imitates the vibration of a traditional clutch and the ability for the EV's engine to mock stall, with none of the danger of actually stalling.
Telling it like it is - Next item on the agenda: Rescue the expression “Grinds my gears.”