Why do all hybrid cars have automatic transmission?
Why can't the have manual?
2006-09-12 02:56:40 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Cars & Transportation ➔ Other - Cars & Transportation
The Honda Insight Hybrid is offered with a manual transmission. Any Hybrid can have a manual transmission, but marketing dictates that they have an automatic because 95% of buyers want them. The market for manual transmissions is shrinking every day, as the efficiency of automatics with computer control, overdrive, and lock-up torque converters makes them more efficient than a manual.
2006-09-12 03:20:01 · answer #1 · answered by yes_its_me 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
All hybrid cars have automatic transmissions because their electric motors are coupled to the engines at the spots where the flywheels are located.
But carmakers can set up a conventional five-speed manual transmission as variable to automatically assist during long hours of travel and when there is no way to replenish their battery. All hybrid cars should have automatic alternatives.
2006-09-12 10:16:40 · answer #2 · answered by camilo r 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
they can have a manual, just cheaper at the time to install an automatic transmission. Most vehicles today have automatic, and since hybred cars are not in a great demand at the moment, they are trying to accomondate the higher portion of buyers with what they usual drive. When they catch on, I'm sure you will see manual transmissions as well
2006-09-12 10:07:37 · answer #3 · answered by Zenas Walter 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
They dont need to shift as they use a CVT transmission, constantly variable transmission. It means the gear ration is continuously variable. Electric motors have a flat hp and torque curve and operate best at one speed so there is no need to shift. Drive one and you'll see, rather feel, exactly what I mean. Furthermore, evein gas cars CVT transmissions are the most efficient for transfer of power and therefore MPG.
2006-09-12 17:30:22 · answer #4 · answered by kmankman4321 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Didn't know that - but I would think that a hybrid using 2 different engines (so to speak) would want as many decision about the driving 'experience' automated. It might be possible to have conditions where you're in the 'wrong' gear for the 'engine' that is being used...
just a guess
2006-09-12 10:10:37 · answer #5 · answered by words_smith_4u 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
because hybrid cars run on part gas and part tears of a thousand babies. And it requires auto matic so it won'
t explode
2006-09-12 10:03:14 · answer #6 · answered by Stan the man 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋