You’re kidding me

 

For decades, drivers have been familiar with the standard layout of gear poles: a series of numbers for forward gears and an “R” for backwards. Automatic vehicles are usually equipped with “P”, “N”, “D” and “R” – standing in front of Park, Neutral, Drive and Reverse – sometimes with an extra “L” for low gear. So when some motorists recently saw the letter “E” on certain older gearbogs, it sparked curiosity. Many drivers had never seen it before and wondered what purpose it served.

The mystery was highlighted in a discussion shared by Supercar Blondie, where followers were asked if they knew what the “E” represented. Experienced drivers were quick to explain that the letter stood for “Economy”. Found in some older vehicles, the “E” equipment functioned in the same way as a high gear, but was specifically designed to improve fuel efficiency. By keeping the engine rotations per minute (RPM) lower and in some cases adjusting how the engine worked, the setting aimed to reduce fuel consumption during stable driving conditions.

However, this feature gradually disappeared as car technology progressed. Modern engines are built with much greater efficiency, with advanced fuel injection systems, improved aerodynamics and automated management systems that automatically optimize performance. As a result, a dedicated “Economy” gear became redundant. Today, the fuel-saving technology is seamlessly integrated into the vehicle’s design rather than driven by a separate gear option. For many drivers, the “E” equipment is now more of a historical footnote than a practical feature.

Interestingly, the letter “E” has taken on a new meaning in the current automotive landscape. It is now most commonly associated with electric vehicles. Unlike traditional manual transmissions, electric cars operate without multi-speed gearboxes, which typically function more like automatics with simplified controls. Some newer models even replace traditional gear sticks with compact switches or digital selectors. As electric vehicles become increasingly common and governments encourage lower emissions transport, the driving experience continues to evolve. While classic manual gear sticks can eventually become rare, they remain a nostalgic reminder of how car technology has changed over time.