The five-speed transmission is nearly extinct in the U.S., with only two cars offering it, one automatic and one manual. The fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner, the last vehicle with a five-speed automatic, is being replaced with an eight-speed model, while the base-model Nissan Versa remains the only option for a five-speed manual. The shift towards more gears and the rise of CVTs in cheaper cars are contributing to the decline of the five-speed transmission, which was first introduced in 1991.
BMW board member Frank Weber announced that the future of all BMW M cars will eventually be automatic-only due to declining demand and cost considerations, advising enthusiasts to purchase manual transmission models now. Despite some customer demand for manuals, especially in the U.S., BMW is phasing them out, with only the M2, M3, M4, and Z4 currently offering manual options in the U.S.
Inventor Haven Mercer has patented an automatic transmission system for bicycles that features a continuously variable transmission, allowing for an infinite number of gear ratios. The system is fully automatic and entirely mechanical, with the chainring and rear sprocket expanding and contracting in response to torque inputs. Mercer has created a working prototype and aims to develop the system for trail riding, with potential applications for road cycling. The transmission eliminates the need for shifting, potentially improving safety and ease of use for cyclists.
Ford has released an instructional video showcasing the Remote Rev feature on the 2024 Mustang, which allows users to rev the engine from a distance using the key fob. The feature is activated by pressing the lock and unlock buttons in quick succession, and the car will rev to 2000 rpm to indicate it's ready to use. It's preprogrammed to rev three times in quick succession from 3000 rpm to 5000 rpm, but the last 5000 rpm rev seems to be the limit. Remote Rev only works with 2024 Mustangs equipped with automatic transmissions.
Gordon Murray Automotive has dropped the optional automatic transmission from its upcoming V-12-powered T.33 supercar due to weak interest, with only three or four people wanting it. The lack of demand made it near impossible to justify the transmission's development considering the planned production run of 200 cars.
