POLL: ME Transmission Offering(s)

[John]

Few doubt that the 2020+, first generations ME will always offer a DCT transmission. For those wanting to learn more about a DCT:

https://www.midenginecorvetteforum.c...ng-about-a-dct

We sure have heard tons of repeated rumors that the ME will not offer any transmission other than a DC, all to the dismay of the 22% of Corvette buyers who heretofore have selected a manual transmission.

Then we learned of a September 6th patent which learned of a lifeline given to manual transmission lovers, with this patent:

https://www.midenginecorvetteforum.c...ft-alternative

Additionally, manual trans lovers have rejoiced every time we have read that Porsche is going to again offer one — though only in very selected models.

To survey our collective current thoughts.

[JB]

I think suppliers will make gm a deal they can not refuse to offer the base vehicle with a manual.

this will allow gm to upcharge their automatic dct transmission for both a lower standard msrp to be offered after launch and increase individual average transaction with the optional extra cost automatic dct transmission.

corvettes have a long standing tradition of excellent base price value and in offering a standard manual transmission.

i ve been driving manual transmission sports cars for over 40 years...including my present corvette.

i want the dct even if gm offers a manual.

the technology is too cool to not buy this time around in the corvette c8.

doesnt matter to me but i do believe a manual transmission will be listed as standard and no charge while only the dct will be available for extra cost at launch for ease of production and faster ramp up,

[John]

I believe the reverse could happen, the exact circumstance which we had during the entire C5 generation (1997-2004), when an automatic transmission was standard and the price of a manual was between $825 and $915 extra every year.

I believe this will be the case during the C8 generation, and Tadge more or less prepped us for that when he asked at the BASH this April, how many would pay extra for a manual transmission. A very large number of hands shot up.

[JB]

Well this january hopefully we will hear if there will be transmission choices and which will be standard and optional.

[MidEngine]

A DCT costs more than both of the other types of transmissions. However, if the manual comes out in a couple of years, GM knows that manual-starved Corvette owners would pay up nicely for one.

[Foosh]

^ This is my view.

[AbqVic]

One factor no one has mentioned is that shift linkage on a manual transmission mid engine car tends to be sloppy. Unless some servo technology is utilized, manual transmission fans will not be happy because they are used to the very direct feel of the front engine manual shift lever. Just my opinion of course.

[Racer86]

C6, C7 transmissions are in the rear of the car. They use a tubular shift rod. Only one of our midengined cars used push pull cables, and they were as positive to shift as the tube type linkage. Old style 4 speed front engine transmissions used 3 rod linkage. 2 for the forward gears, and one for reverse. They used simple Bushings. Race versions of this used spherical rod end bearings to remove any play. Any style linkage can be designed to work correctly. Mid engine transaxles will shift correctly, believe that!

[AbqVic]

Racer86: True that C6 and C7 transmissions are in the rear of the car. My point was that the linkage does not have to work its way around the motor as a mid engine does. But, happy to hear from you that push/pull cables work very well. I have no experience with that design.

[meyerweb]

None of the above? I think the DCT will be the only transmission option, period. At least until an all-electric version with no transmission appears.

If a DCT exists, there's no reason to offer a regular slushbox, too. The DCT is superior in almost every way, and shifts itself just like a true auto, so what's the point. (I'm assuming GM gets the shift logic and clutch action right. Some DCTs are pretty annoying in auto mode, with abrupt clutch engagement.) And DCTs don't have to cost a fortune. The VW GTI offers a DCT options for $1100, which is quite a bit cheaper than the C7's slushbox. Audi currently charges no premium for the DCT over the manual. Porsche does charge more than $3 grand for their DCT, but Porsche is the queen of expensive options.

As for a manual, I just don't see it. As the OP states, only 22% of buyers made that choice, and that number has been shrinking for years. Audi and other manufacturers have announced no more manuals. Manufacturing and selling only one transmission simplifies manufacturing and reduces costs and simplifies ordering decisions for dealers.

[Racer86]

didn’t Chevrolet have an all electric COPO Camaro at Sema? 800 volt system, 9 second quarter mile! Makes me wonder what GM is planning with the ME?

[bobbytinvab]

I'm looking forward to having a DCT. I've driven manual transmission vehicles all my life until my c7, and I don't miss it on the daily commute. I get that it's a more "connected driving experience", but traffic is a pain.

[meyerweb]

It's nice not to have a daily commute anymore!

[Racer86]

It's nice not to have a daily commute anymore!

Totally agree. We do what we want when we want. Love being retired from the rat race. Now we have time to do the deals.

[Frenzy36]

None of the above? I think the DCT will be the only transmission option, period. At least until an all-electric version with no transmission appears.

If a DCT exists, there's no reason to offer a regular slushbox, too. The DCT is superior in almost every way, and shifts itself just like a true auto, so what's the point. (I'm assuming GM gets the shift logic and clutch action right. Some DCTs are pretty annoying in auto mode, with abrupt clutch engagement.) And DCTs don't have to cost a fortune. The VW GTI offers a DCT options for $1100, which is quite a bit cheaper than the C7's slushbox. Audi currently charges no premium for the DCT over the manual. Porsche does charge more than $3 grand for their DCT, but Porsche is the queen of expensive options.

As for a manual, I just don't see it. As the OP states, only 22% of buyers made that choice, and that number has been shrinking for years. Audi and other manufacturers have announced no more manuals. Manufacturing and selling only one transmission simplifies manufacturing and reduces costs and simplifies ordering decisions for dealers.

I completely agree, for those who have not experienced a DCT, There is a lot of benefits. GM will also benefit because they can dial it in so there will be less wear and tear on many other parts of the car and improve longevity of the drivetrain. For those declining Rowers out there, that was then this is now. I feel the DCT is the only way to go. Efficiency, Speed, Longevity, Highway MPG, Lightning Fast Shifts. Remember this is the Year 2020 Right? Why would they use Ancient Rowing Technology? Should they put a 8 Track Sound System in it Also? Really ?