Lexus LFA Successor To Have Virtual Manual Transmission

The LFA successor is either going to arrive with arace car-derived twin-turbo V8, an all-electric powertrain as per theElectrified Sport, or perhaps both ICE and EV variants will be offered. A more recent rumor even suggested it will haveclose to 1,000 horsepower. What we do now know is that the LFA's successor might come with a virtual manual transmission, something Lexus President Koji Sato let slip toTop Gearin a recent interview. In February,we reported on a patent Toyota submitted regarding just that. A manual transmission in an all-electric car is unnecessary as the vehicle's coding controls the torque. However, that coding can have a variation that simulates shifting gears and gives control of that over to the driver.

The software can even simulate a traditional transmission's traditional clutch feel and gear shift despite not being mechanically tethered to the drivetrain. The concept brings a whole new level to the idea of the "PlayStation car" a criticism that used to be leveled at theNissan GT-Rby people that never drove one. However, it could bring an extra element of fun to the LFA Mk2. It's also something that could filter down to other electric Lexus models and would suit something like an all-electric LC model.