Toyota has patented a new simulated transmission for electric vehicles that could reproduce the sensation of shifting through six gears without using a conventional engine or gearbox. The system may eventually find its way into the second-generation Lexus LFA, although the production car’s specifications have not been confirmed.

Unlike Toyota’s earlier EV technology demonstration, which used a clutch pedal and a manual-style shifter, the newer patent describes a system more closely related to the simulated transmissions used by Hyundai, Mercedes-AMG, and Porsche. It would allow drivers to select gears with paddle shifters or a traditional shift lever, without requiring a third pedal.

How the simulated transmission works

The patent, uncovered by CarBuzz, describes an electric vehicle that adjusts motor torque across six simulated ratios. The system could imitate the behavior of a conventional automatic transmission or a more advanced dual-clutch gearbox.

During a gear change, the vehicle’s control systems would briefly reduce motor output before restoring power in the next simulated ratio. That interruption is intended to create the sensation of a shift, including the jolt associated with changing gears in a combustion-powered car.

Hyundai’s N models use a similar approach, modifying power delivery during shifts to make an electric vehicle feel more like an internal-combustion performance car. Toyota’s patent presents the system as an alternative to its earlier fully synthetic manual concept.

An alternative to Toyota’s simulated manual

Toyota’s earlier concept included a pseudo clutch pedal, but the newer patent notes that a significant number of drivers cannot operate a traditional manual transmission. By removing the clutch pedal, the latest system could offer a more accessible way to mimic sequential-shifter behavior.

The technology could be operated through steering-wheel paddles or a conventional shift lever. However, the patent does not confirm that the system will reach production or specify which vehicle could receive it.

Could the Lexus LFA use it?

The second-generation Lexus LFA could be a potential showcase for the technology. The new LFA was unveiled as a concept in December 2025 and shares its aluminum chassis with the V8-powered Toyota GR GT.

Unlike the GR GT, the LFA does not have a combustion engine. The source indicates that the new supercar could be an EV, making it a possible candidate for Toyota’s simulated transmission system. A production version has not been detailed, however, and the car’s final powertrain remains uncertain.

The source also reports that the LFA could become the first production model from the Toyota group to use advanced solid-state battery cells. Toyota has spent years developing the technology, but its use in the Lexus supercar has not been confirmed.

A return to the original LFA’s naturally aspirated, high-revving V10 is described as unlikely. If the next LFA does become electric, Toyota’s simulated transmission could give the performance-focused Lexus a more engaging driving character without a conventional engine and gearbox.