Number of Manual Transmission Cars in the USA
The number of manual transmission cars in the USA has been declining for decades. In 1989, over 30% of new cars sold in the US had a manual transmission. By 2019, that number had fallen to just 2.5%.
There are a number of factors that have contributed to this decline, including the increasing popularity of automatic transmissions, the rising cost of manual transmission cars, and the lack of demand for manual transmission cars by younger drivers.
Why Are Manual Transmission Cars Disappearing?
Automatic Transmissions Are More Popular
Automatic transmissions are more popular than manual transmissions for a number of reasons. They are easier to drive, especially in stop-and-go traffic. They are also more fuel-efficient than manual transmissions, and they can provide a smoother and more comfortable ride.
Rising Cost of Manual Transmission Cars
Manual transmission cars are more expensive to produce than automatic transmission cars. This is because they require more parts and more labor to assemble. As a result, manual transmission cars are typically more expensive to purchase than automatic transmission cars.
Lack of Demand for Manual Transmission Cars by Younger Drivers
Younger drivers are less likely to drive manual transmission cars than older drivers. This is because they are more likely to have grown up driving automatic transmission cars. They are also more likely to be interested in cars with features that are not available on manual transmission cars, such as infotainment systems and automatic emergency braking.
The Future of Manual Transmission Cars
It is unclear what the future holds for manual transmission cars in the USA. However, it is likely that they will continue to decline in popularity. Automatic transmissions are simply more convenient and easier to drive, and they are becoming more and more fuel-efficient.
However, there is still a small but dedicated group of drivers who prefer manual transmission cars. These drivers appreciate the control and involvement that a manual transmission provides. They also enjoy the fact that manual transmission cars are typically lighter and more fuel-efficient than automatic transmission cars.
So, while the future of manual transmission cars is uncertain, it is likely that they will continue to be available for the foreseeable future.
