The automotive industry has seen massive disruptions in a short time. And it’s changed the fabric of car culture right before our eyes. This is by no means an all-encompassing article, but here are some things to think about:
The manual transmission is on life support…
That’s not breaking news. We all know that modern automatics can be faster, and we know EVs are even faster still. But that completely misses the point. It’s like arguing that since we can make music with an app, we don’t need instruments anymore. The point is – the experience! It’s about being a musician! Being in the moment, and being in control of that moment. It’s the essence true sport, art, substance, passion, etc. You either understand that… or you freakin’ don’t. You’re either Enzo Ferrari, or Elon Musk. Unfortunately though, it seems we’ve tipped a scale where most people don’t ‘get it’ anymore… automotive CEOs & automotive journalists included. The manual transmission may be going extinct, but with it, goes the soul of authentic sports cars.
Increasing regulations…
The current administration has been absolutely brutal on the automotive industry & car culture. Legislation (and inflation) is destroying the value of ALL cars… but especially lower-production, higher-sensation new sports cars. Even if/when a spirited driver’s car beats the odds & makes it to market, the VALUE has become difficult for enthusiasts to justify. And without affordable, compelling, exciting car choices, the culture will not flourish into new generations. Boring cars don’t make car enthusiasts.
On top of that – speed cameras, painfully low speed limits, laws that target modified vehicles, and overall big brother spread a sense of defeat amongst would-be enthusiastic buyers. People in search of that true sense of driving freedom, control, & exhilaration are leaving the paved/monitored roads, and leaning towards UTVs, side-by-sides, bikes, watercraft, and/or finding other outlets where they can play more freely. Sadly yet honestly…
The days of household love for the automobile are probably numbered.
A big-tech mindset has infiltrated the automotive industry. The focus is no longer on the experience of driving, it’s on ‘mobility’. And that tells you everything you need to know. Many arrows point in the direction of sportive driving becoming recreational rather than widely experienced. Similar to the equestrian world. We don’t use horses for transportation anymore, but there are people who still live & die by the lifestyle and the experience.
In a similar way, I have no doubt that diehard car enthusiasts will keep the true spirit & sport of driving alive. And we will live-out car culture with intention, passion, grit, & purpose… no matter what barriers may come. But it’s time to start coming to terms with the fact that the best sports cars have already been made. So plan accordingly.
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