I’m curious about the historical background behind the wildly different popularity of automatic versus manual transmissions in the United States and Europe.
From what I understand, automatic transmissions became widespread in the US starting in the mid-20th century, and by the late 20th century, they were the overwhelming norm, with manuals having a single digit market share. In contrast, the situation in Europe is completely flipped: automatic never became popular, and even as late as 2000, only less than 10% of new cars were automatic – compared to 90.3% in US.
What were the main factors that led to this striking divergence? When and why did it start, and what sustained it over the decades?
Was it due to differences in fuel prices, road infrastructure, manufacturing capabilities, consumer preferences, or something else entirely?
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The popular conception, at least, was that automatics were less efficient & gave you less control. Also they were more expensive. Automatics were for disabled people who couldn’t manage manual shift.
In recent years however, automatics have improved and started outcompeting manuals; but both are being outcompeted by EVs.