Porsche North America CEO Timo Resch has confirmed that manual transmissions remain a core priority for the brand, driven by strong enthusiasm from purists and strong order rates for models like the 911 Carrera S pack MT.
"We look at it from three angles, listening to social media, engaging directly in events, and hearing from dealers who see clear additional demand," Resch stated during an exclusive interview detailing the automaker's strategy.
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SubscribeWhile the broader automotive landscape rapidly transitions toward electric vehicles and automated gearboxes, Porsche continues to prioritize natural customer demand across its lineup, ensuring internal combustion options remain available.
Resch noted that customer preferences vary, with some drivers returning to traditional combustion engines after experimenting with EVs, proving that emotional driving experiences still hold immense value in the modern sports car market.
The Future of Manual Gearboxes and EVs
The ongoing commitment to manual gearboxes reflects Porsche's dedication to satisfying core automotive enthusiasts who value mechanical engagement above sheer acceleration numbers.
"We intend to offer manual cars for as long as we are allowed and as long as customer demand tells us we must keep producing them," Resch emphasized regarding the longevity of the manual options.
At the same time, the luxury manufacturer is navigating the evolving electric vehicle market, acknowledging that adoption rates depend heavily on individual lifestyles and regional charging infrastructure.
By offering a diverse portfolio ranging from traditional sports cars to high-performance electric models, Porsche aims to provide flexible choices that cater to every type of driving enthusiast.