Summary
• Many car fans find electric vehicles no fun to drive due to lack of one-pedal driving, regenerative braking, and real gearbox
• General Motors is working on a clutch pedal for electric vehicle transmissions to improve engagement
• The new clutch actuation in future electric models will give drivers precise control over clutch operation
• GM’s patent filing states the new clutch would improve efficiency and performance of electric models
• The possibility of this new clutch technology appearing in future electric models is uncertain due to decline in manual cars and stick shift sales in recent years
Article
General Motors is trying to address the perception that electric vehicles are not fun to drive by reportedly working on a clutch pedal for electric vehicle transmissions. This move is part of a trend in the industry to increase engagement with EVs, with Hyundai and Lexus also planning manual EVs. GM’s proposed clutch actuation system would improve transmissions in high-performance electric vehicles by using a hydraulic actuator controlled by a controller to open or close the clutch as needed. The simpler setup would be more efficient and avoid instabilities in the electric motor.
The patent for this new clutch system, published earlier this month, promises to improve the efficiency and performance of GM’s future electric models by giving drivers more control over clutch operation. This precision control would allow for smoother gear shifts and real-time adjustments to the transmission, adding to the driving experience of electric vehicles. However, it is important to note that just because GM has patented this technology does not guarantee its implementation in future electric models, as the market for manual cars in the U.S. is declining.
The challenge of making electric vehicles more engaging for car enthusiasts goes beyond concerns about range anxiety and charging infrastructure. Many argue that the lack of one-pedal driving and regenerative braking, as well as the absence of a gearbox to play with, makes electric cars feel soulless compared to traditional vehicles. With its proposed clutch pedal for electric vehicles, GM is hoping to change this perception and convert more drivers to electric cars with a more engaging and interactive driving experience.
The development of a clutch pedal for electric vehicles represents a shift towards innovation and customization in the EV market. By giving drivers more control over their vehicles and allowing for real-time adjustments to the transmission, GM is aiming to appeal to car enthusiasts who value the driving experience. The new clutch actuation system would not only improve the performance and efficiency of electric vehicles but also add a level of precision and engagement that is typically associated with traditional gasoline-powered cars.
While the future of manual cars in the U.S. may be uncertain, the innovation and advancements in electric vehicle technology are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the automotive industry. GM’s patent for a clutch pedal in electric vehicles is a testament to the company’s commitment to creating a more engaging driving experience for electric car owners. Whether or not this technology will be included in future GM electric models remains to be seen, but the potential for increased driver control and smoother gear shifts could revolutionize the way we think about electric vehicles.
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