In recent years, manual transmissions have been rapidly disappearing from the new car market.

However, according to Andreas Preuninger, head of Porsche’s GT division, who spoke to motor1, the brand seems to have a strong commitment to preserving this traditional gearbox even amid the wave of electrification.

In this article, we’ll delve into Preuninger’s insights to explore Porsche’s passion for manual transmissions and the surprising benefits they bring.

Porsche Lineup Still Offering Manual Options

Currently, many automakers have discontinued or reduced manual transmission offerings, and in Japan, manual cars are now few and far between. Amid this trend, Porsche still offers manuals across its entire lineup of gasoline-powered sports cars—from the 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman to the 911 Carrera T and GT3.

However, with the planned electrification of the 718 later this year, manual models are expected to be limited to the 911 only.

Preuninger states, “Personally, I believe manual transmissions are extremely important.”
While he acknowledges that the PDK (Porsche DoppelKupplung) is faster, he prefers manuals for driver-focused cars. Even on the track, he finds joy in shifting gears himself. At Porsche’s core lies the joy of the driver actively controlling the car. Preuninger’s words strongly reflect this philosophy.

Surprising Advantages of Manual Transmissions

Preuninger’s dedication to manuals goes beyond just driving enjoyment.

He believes manuals are also effective in meeting stricter emissions regulations. “Manuals are lightweight and contribute to better fuel economy and lower emissions. Also, the internal resistance of a manual gearbox is significantly lower than that of the PDK, so more power is transmitted to the wheels,” he explains.

In other words, in real-world conditions, manual cars consume less fuel and emit fewer pollutants than PDK-equipped cars. This surprising fact suggests that for a sports car brand like Porsche, manual transmissions play an important role in balancing environmental performance with driving pleasure.

In fact, in 2022, nearly 50% of 911 GT3 sales in some countries were manual models.
This shows the enduring popularity of manuals among Porsche customers. While many automakers focus on electrification and autonomous driving technologies, Porsche cherishes manual transmissions—a technology that, in a way, goes against the times.

This is not mere nostalgia, but a pursuit of the fundamental joy of driving.

The Future of Manuals in the Electrification Era

Currently, there is no concern about manuals being discontinued in Porsche’s sports cars.

However, Porsche denies plans to develop a feature that simulates manual transmissions in electric vehicles (EVs). While BMW and Ford continue to produce sports cars with manuals, Mercedes-AMG, Ferrari, and Lamborghini have already dropped them. Porsche’s steadfast commitment to manuals sets it apart from other manufacturers.

The wave of electrification is transforming the entire automotive industry.

Yet Porsche is determined to protect the timeless value of “the joy of driving”. The manual transmission symbolizes this perfectly. For Porsche drivers, manuals are not just gearboxes but a vital element for communicating with the car and enjoying the act of driving itself. From Preuninger’s words, it’s clear Porsche will continue to uphold this philosophy and preserve manual transmissions. This news will surely be a beacon of hope for Porsche owners and all car enthusiasts.

What Porsche Continues to Protect

This article has explained Porsche’s passion for manual transmissions and their unexpected benefits, based on the words of Andreas Preuninger, head of Porsche’s GT division.

In today’s accelerating electrification era, Porsche’s emphasis on manuals is not mere nostalgia but a reflection of its pursuit of the universal joy of driving. For Porsche drivers, manuals are not just components but symbols of unity with the car and driving pleasure. We hope Porsche will continue to uphold this philosophy and protect manual transmissions.

Porsche is more than just a means of transportation—it’s a passion igniter for drivers.
At its core lies the joy of actively controlling the car, as with a manual transmission. Personally, my 981 Boxster GTS manual is my favorite Porsche in our household.

Even as Porsche advances electrification, I believe this value will never be lost.