Corvette Grand Sport Arrives, Porsche Eyes Manual EVs

Corvette Grand Sport Debuts, Porsche Explores Manual EVs, and Lamborghini’s New Vision

The automotive world is buzzing with exciting developments, and we’re here to break them all down. From the highly anticipated return of the Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport to Porsche’s innovative approach to electric vehicle transmissions and Lamborghini’s surprising new market ideas, there’s plenty to discuss. Plus, we’ve got news on the demise of the Sony Honda Mobility venture and updates on the Nissan Z.

New Corvette Grand Sport Joins the Lineup

Get ready, Corvette fans! The iconic Grand Sport is officially back. Chevrolet announced its return at Sebring, and while full details are still emerging, we know it carries the signature Grand Sport touches, like subtle red stripes. Sadly, Chevrolet has firmly shut down rumors of a manual transmission for the C8 generation. Chief Corvette engineer Tony Roma stated clearly that a manual is not coming, despite a supplier hinting at a potential solution. While a third-party company, Tremec, is reportedly developing a manual transmission for swaps in about two years, it faces significant integration challenges with the C8’s unique center console design.

The decision to forgo a manual transmission has sparked debate. While the late C7 Corvette saw low manual take rates, some argue the C8 appeals to a younger, more performance-oriented buyer who might appreciate the engagement of a three-pedal setup, much like the demand seen in certain Porsche models. The possibility of a manual Z06 or even a manual Grand Sport, which often includes some Z06 upgrades, would undoubtedly excite enthusiasts. There are even whispers of two Grand Sport models, possibly including a rebranded ZR1 variant as a ‘Grand Sport X’.

The conversation also touched on the beloved C4 Grand Sport from 1996, a car many consider one of the best-looking Corvettes ever made. Its distinctive red interior and aggressive styling still hold a special place in the hearts of collectors.

Porsche Patents a Manual-Like EV Transmission

In a move that could excite purists and EV skeptics alike, Porsche has filed a patent for a novel transmission system that mimics a manual gearbox for electric vehicles. This innovative technology, submitted in 2024, would allow drivers to select between traditional automatic operation and a manual mode featuring a simulated H-pattern shifter. While the shifter wouldn’t be mechanically linked to the powertrain, it would use shift-by-wire technology to provide tactile feedback, much like the system found in the Hyundai Ioniq 5N.

This development is particularly interesting for Porsche, a brand known for its driver-focused experience and commitment to the physical act of shifting. While some might lament the lack of a true clutch, the potential to add an engaging manual-like experience to EVs, especially future electric Cayman and Boxster models, is compelling. Porsche’s reputation for engineering excellence suggests they could make this system feel remarkably authentic.

Honda and Sony Pull the Plug on EV Venture

In less encouraging news, the joint venture between Sony and Honda, known as Sony Honda Mobility, has officially been dissolved. The company announced it will discontinue the development and launch of its planned EV models, including the previously revealed Afeela. This decision follows Honda’s reassessment of its electrification strategy, which left Sony Honda Mobility unable to utilize crucial technologies and assets originally planned for provision by Honda.

The Afeela project, which aimed to blend Sony’s entertainment and sensing technologies with Honda’s manufacturing expertise, struggled to find a viable path forward. Critics had already questioned the viability and pricing of the Afeela sedan and its sibling model. This marks a significant setback for Sony’s automotive ambitions, reinforcing the immense difficulty and cost associated with developing and producing vehicles, a lesson learned by many tech companies, including Apple, which ultimately decided against entering the car market.

Lamborghini Eyes a Two-Plus-Two Grand Tourer

Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann has revealed that the Italian supercar maker is considering adding a two-door, two-plus-two grand touring car to its lineup. This news comes as a surprise, given that Ferrari has historically offered similar models, which have often served as entry points to the brand rather than high-demand halo cars. While the Urus SUV currently fulfills Lamborghini’s need for a higher-volume, practical vehicle, the prospect of a more traditional GT aligns with historical Lamborghini concepts like the Estoque sedan, which, though never produced, showcased a sleek four-door design.

The potential two-plus-two would likely target a different buyer than Lamborghini’s core super sports car audience, perhaps competing with models like the Ferrari Roma. It remains to be seen if Lamborghini can find a successful niche for such a car in today’s market, where two-plus-two configurations are less common than SUVs or pure two-seaters. The company has also confirmed it is ruling out a smaller SUV and a sedan, focusing its future efforts on its existing successful models and potential new segments like this GT.

Nissan Z Gets a Nismo Boost

The Nissan Z has received a minor facelift, including a new paint color called ‘Breathtaking Blue’. More significantly, the upcoming Z Nismo model will finally offer a manual transmission option. While many enthusiasts believe a manual should have been available from the start, its inclusion in the Nismo variant is a welcome addition for those who prefer the engagement of a stick shift. However, with the current Z facing stiff competition and market challenges, the question remains whether these updates will be enough to secure its long-term future.

Source: The New Corvette! Porsche Saves the Manual, Four Seat Lamborghini! THIS CAR POD! EP104 (YouTube)