BMW M manual transmissions face uncertainty due to hybrid tech

The future of manual transmissions within BMW’s M division is increasingly uncertain due to technical challenges and shifting market demands. Frank van Meel, head of BMW M, has noted that the integration of 48-volt mild-hybrid systems presents significant compatibility issues, as these systems require precise software synchronization that is difficult to achieve with manual gearboxes and unpredictable human shifting.

Beyond electrification, engineering constraints and supply chain issues are contributing to the decline of the manual option. The torque produced by the S58 six-cylinder engine currently exceeds the capacity of existing manual gearboxes, such as the ZF S6-53, in its most powerful configurations. This has already resulted in the absence of manual options for the M3 and M4 Competition models, as well as the M2 xDrive and M2 CS.

While the business case for manual transmissions is weakening due to lower production volumes and shrinking supplier support, demand remains high in certain markets. In the United States, approximately half of the G87-generation M2 Coupe buyers opted for a manual transmission. Although BMW M is reportedly still looking for solutions to keep the manual option alive for upcoming models, no guarantees have been made.