A couple of years ago, back when I started this blog, I wrote in my post DSG Is the Future, that the manual transmission as we know if would soon cease to exist and that newer dual clutch type transmissions would take their place.
Well, it seems like this is starting to actually happen. Two of the world's most prominent exotic sports car manufacturers, Ferrari and Lamborghini, have both recently announced that they will be phasing out the traditional manual transmission in future models. Instead, they will concentrate on paddle shifted (dual clutch and automated manual) gearboxes for all their models.
With manufacturers being faced with more and more regulations regarding efficiency and emissions, and with Ferrari and Lambo's sales of real manual transmission equipped cars dwindling, you could see this decision coming a mile away. The newer computer controlled transmissions are much more efficient than the traditional driver controlled three pedal setup and they are faster on the track as well. However, they do take away a lot of the soul and enjoyment of a true sports car.
I wonder if Enzo and Ferruccio would be proud.
Either way, it's a sad day for enthusiasts.
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