Interactive Manual Drive is a new, Lexus-first technology that offers a manual gear-shifting experience in a battery electric vehicle. The system mimics the dynamic sensations of driving a combustion engine vehicle with a manual transmission. It achieves this through virtual gear shifts and appropriate changes in a synthesised motor note. The purpose of this innovation is to increase driver enjoyment and engagement with a unique multi-sensory experience. But how does it work?
Interactive Manual Drive: how it works
A vehicle equipped with Interactive Manual Drive features a virtual powertrain programme integrated into the ECU. The system monitors accelerator position and vehicle speed, and then multiplies these factors by the virtual gear selected by the driver. This prompts the ECU to adapt the motor’s actual torque output to suit the driving situation – such as when shifting to a lower gear on a twisty road or navigating an uphill climb.
While using these eight virtual gears, the driver receives rewarding multi-sensory feedback in real time through throttle response, G-forces, engine sound simulation, and a tachometer-style display. The soundtrack generated by Interactive Manual Drive is tuned to audibly convey the driver’s inputs and the car’s behaviour for a more immersive experience.
Which Lexus model is the first to feature this system?
The first application of Interactive Manual Drive is in the new Lexus RZ 550e F Sport. When the system is not active, occupants can enjoy the smooth, comfortable and powerful performance that is characteristic of all Lexus BEVs. But when the driver engages the system by pressing the ‘M’ mode button on the centre console (see below) it delivers a more visceral, engaging experience.
Gear shifts are then automatically created, according to throttle use and vehicle speed. The driver’s digital instrument display also changes to show a new meter that combines a power meter and tachometer. It indicates either the shift points or the optimum moment for the driver to make a manual shift using the paddle controls – right hand for upshifts, left hand for downshifts.
Read more: What’s changed in the 2026 Lexus RZ range?
