Ford Has Patented a Fake Gearbox for EVs

With the shift from traditional combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles, there have been massive changes in not just how these vehicles operate but also how they look. As the electric engine does not operate with gear changes like manual combustion engines do, they have no need for a gearbox. Instead, it has a gearstick similar to an automatic car, which puts it into drive, reverse, and neutral. 

Ford’s Fake Gearbox Patent

Now there has been a change of plans, as Ford has patented a fake gearbox for its EV’s. But filing a patent doesn’t guarantee these concepts will reach the production line, since some companies strategically submit patents to block rivals from pursuing similar ideas. Hopefully, this one makes it to our roads, as the ‘fake’ manual shifter includes a base, a shifter handle, and a plurality of actuators. The stick itself will move from the base of the mechanism along a predetermined path.  

How the Fake Gearbox Works

Unlike the traditional gearbox, which is full of mechanisms, this new and improved version will have a series of electronic features such as haptic motors. These motors will give the driver a similar feeling and motion to a traditional gearbox. It is thought that Ford is going down this route to appease consumers who are still on the fence about changing to an electric car, as the more features that are similar, the easier it will be to make the switch.

Ford Isn’t Alone: Toyota and Hyundai Join the Game

This isn’t the first time an automotive company has explored this idea. Three years ago, Toyota also filed a patent for a “virtual transmission,” which was installed in a Lexus UX300e EV on a preliminary basis. Unlike Ford’s concept, this one included an artificial joystick and clutch paired with some electronics to give a “real-feel.” Who knows, it might also make production one day, too.  

Along with Toyota, Hyundai has also tried its hand at an artificial joystick with “the N e-shift,” which, when activated, pretends to have an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Hyundai designed this with a more sophisticated construction compared to the Lexus and Ford versions. It was installed in the Ioniq 5, which has since had great reviews. 

Pros and Cons of the Fake Gearbox

Overall, the fake gearbox has its pros and cons. The main positive reason why these companies are putting so much time and money into developing and installing them into their cars is that there is a potential for the vehicle and driver to work in unison, making the whole experience more enjoyable. The main con is that the more moving parts there are in something, the greater the chance of sections of that breaking. Automakers market electric vehicles as futuristic, minimalistic, and streamlined, so adding non-functional parts undermines their core purpose.

Final Thoughts: Are Fake Gearboxes the Future?

The artificial joystick is going to be a component that will divide opinions, as it is not a functional part but a part that would make some drivers more comfortable. So, regardless of how you feel, it seems like these fake gearboxes are here to stay, and you never know—they might make electric vehicles more popular.