BMW M CEO: Manual Gearboxes Are Nearing Their Final Chapter

BMW M CEO: Manual Gearboxes Are Nearing Their Final Chapter. BMW M’s CEO has confirmed that the future of manual transmissions is becoming increasingly challenging, as their business viability continues to decline. Frank van Meel stated that while BMW is still committed to offering manual gearboxes in selected models for the next few years, maintaining them in the long term may become difficult, especially over the next decade.

A key factor behind this shift is the growing power of modern performance vehicles, which places greater demands on transmission systems. BMW’s current six-speed manual is limited to around 440 lb-ft of torque, restricting its use in higher-performance models. At present, manual transmissions are available in only a few models, including the M2, M3, M4, and Z4. Expanding this option to more powerful variants would require the development of entirely new transmission systems, reflecting BMW’s continued focus on innovation and performance excellence. Start your next journey with us today at MYNAGHI.SA by Mohamed Yousuf Naghi Motors.