Hyundai’s new gated manual shifter can be fitted to both EV and ICE vehicles, although integration with the latter may be costly
Transmission technology is an integral part of the automotive world and has undergone many innovations over the years. In the latest development, Hyundai has filed a patent for a gated manual gearbox that can also function as an automatic transmission. This transmission can be suitable for versatile platforms that support both ICEs and electrified powertrains. Let’s see the details.
Hyundai New Gated Manual/Automatic Gearbox
Hyundai already has notable achievements in transmission technology like in-house 7-speed DCT, 8-speed wet DCT, Active Shift Control (ASC) and Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). Recently, Hyundai introduced the Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N models with a simulated 8-speed DCT gearbox (N e-Shift). The system features torque modulation, engine braking simulation, multi-gear experience with paddle shifters, and even artificial engine sounds. The main idea is to create the responsive feel of an ICE car in an EV.
The new patent filed by Hyundai shows a gated manual transmission that can also operate in automatic mode. The patent has been filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Similar transmission technologies already exist, as seen with the Koenigsegg CC850 hypercar. Porsche has also filed a patent for a similar type of transmission.
According to Hyundai’s patent, the new gated manual transmission setup is based on shift-by-wire technology. This essentially means that there is no physical connection between the shifter and transmission components. In manual mode, users will be able to shift gears just like a manual transmission. The gated mechanism is integrated with the clutch pedal.
The transmission can be switched to operate in automatic mode when needed. This can be useful in specific situations, such as stop and go traffic. For the automatic option, the shifter simply needs to be moved to Drive mode. The patent also discloses an option for sequential transfer. In this, users can simply push the stick forward or backward while walking.
EVs are more likely than ICEs
Although a patent has been filed, it is not certain whether Hyundai plans to use it in a commercially produced model. Many patents are filed even when there are no immediate plans to use the technology. But assuming this new transmission setup from Hyundai is introduced with any future models, it is likely to be seen with an EV. Since the transmission is completely shift-by-wire, it will be easy to integrate with EVs.
Hyundai’s new transmission can also work with ICE vehicles. But the setup will be more complex, something like the Koenigsegg CC850. This would require layers of electronic redundancy and haptic shift-by-wire hardware. This will increase the price of the vehicle significantly. Hyundai’s new manual cum automatic transmission is more likely to be seen with one of their upcoming high-end EVs.
