In an interview with Australian media Car Sales, Frank van Meel, CEO of BMW M, shared insights on the challenges facing manual transmissions in modern vehicles. He pointed out that as the automotive industry evolves with new technologies, traditional manual gearboxes are becoming increasingly obsolete. Van Meel emphasized that from an engineering standpoint, manual shifting does not provide advantages—it restricts torque output and compromises fuel efficiency.

Van Meel elaborated that the existing six-speed manual transmission is limited to 550 Nm of torque, which hampers the development of higher-performance vehicle versions. The CEO indicated that overcoming these limitations would necessitate the creation of a new type of gearbox, which presents significant developmental challenges tied to feasibility and market demand. His comments reflect a strategic pivot for BMW M towards more technologically advanced performance solutions.

This shift away from manual transmissions signals broader trends in the automotive sector, moving towards automated and hybrid systems that prioritize efficiency and performance. As manufacturers like BMW adapt to changing consumer preferences and regulatory pressures regarding emissions, the traditional manual gearbox may find itself increasingly sidelined in favor of more advanced transmission technologies, ultimately reshaping driving experiences in the luxury performance market.