Mercedes-Benz dropping the manual gearbox

Mercedes-Benz has announced that it will not develop any more manual transmissions due to the high costs associated with their development.

Marcus Schaeffer, head of R&D operations, Mercedes-Benz, has been quoted saying that the company will "eliminate manual transmissions" as part of its cost-cutting initiatives.

As far as the Indian market is concerned, Mercedes does not offer a manual transmission in any of the cars that are currently listed for sale.

Schaeffer reportedly said that there will be a substantial reduction in platforms and combustion engines as well. This isn't surprising as most carmakers are slowly transitioning to hybrids and electric vehicles.

Mercedes has just launched the EQC - its first electric SUV in India. It is priced at Rs. 99.30 lakh (ex-showroom, India).

Source