|
I completely understand and agree why the MT is more engaging, no debating that. All I am pointing out is that enthusiasts have tunnel vision and many don’t realize how little the number of people who are enthusiasts versus the broader market. The only reason we get these cars is because some auto execs are enthusiasts themselves. There are so many pressures working against the MT, let’s list some.
1. Overwhelming majority of people buying cars want AT.
2. More EVs in the future.
3. Car companies going to global architectures which favor AT over MT.
4. Car companies focused on what most people want which is SUVs, and crossovers.
5. Many companies making cross overs and SUVs with performance trims that enable someone to get an SUV instead of a sports car and have some semblance of performance.
6. Increasing traffic in big cities and even some small cities forcing many to switch to AT.
7. Older generation that drove MT their whole life, getting older with arthritis and other issues that are just forced to give up the MT.
8. People like my dad giving up all sport cars because they are too low to get in and out of.
9. Younger generation not even getting license to drive, let alone learning to drive MT.
10. Many supercars giving up on MT to cater to more buyers who are older and can afford them.
11. DCTs, PDK, improved ATs and the fact that some are faster than MT for racing.
What does MT have going for it?
A small number of enthusiasts compared to the whole market, racing, some car company collaborations and some remaining auto execs that are enthusiasts fighting for it. It’s not nothing, but it pales in comparison.
MTs will always be available in used cars and aftermarket options, so don’t see losing the MT in my lifetime. But if you want a new car in the future it is getting harder. Maybe things will change, what do I know.
|