Porsche may be preparing its own version of a simulated manual transmission, according to a patent filed by Porsche AG with the European Patent Office. The system would use a dual-clutch transmission with software and mechanical components designed to replicate manual shifting.
Porsche Patent Details a Simulated Manual
The approach is similar to systems previously seen on the Koenigsegg CC850 and Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale. Rather than developing a true manual transmission, the system uses a dual-clutch transmission, or DCT, at its core.
According to the patent’s diagram and accompanying description, the DCT can perform gear changes automatically until one of two manual modes is selected.
The first manual mode allows drivers to change gears themselves using paddle shifters or a traditional shift stick, without needing to operate the clutch pedal. That differs from Ferrari’s setup because the 12Cilindri Manuale uses a gear knob without shifting devices on the steering column.
Porsche’s second manual mode takes a more traditional approach. Drivers can press the clutch pedal while shifting through the gearbox with a conventional shift stick.
Why Use a Faux Manual?
There are practical reasons why automakers could choose a simulated manual system instead of developing a completely new manual transmission.
One consideration is the challenge of having manual transmissions reliably handle the massive power and torque produced by modern high-end sports cars.
Production efficiency is another factor. Fitting a different gearbox into a vehicle can require numerous other components and systems to be re-engineered around it.
Those changes can quickly increase production costs, in addition to the expenses associated with developing the transmission itself.
Porsche Could Follow Koenigsegg and Ferrari
The patent suggests Porsche may be looking at an approach similar to the systems developed by Koenigsegg and Ferrari. Its design combines a DCT with a shift stick and clutch pedal to provide a manual-style driving experience without relying on a conventional manual transmission.
