When drivers selected E (Economy Mode), the transmission behaved differently.
Instead of allowing the engine to rev high before shifting, the system would change gears earlier at lower RPMs. This reduced engine strain and helped minimize fuel usage.
The results were noticeable:
Lower engine noise
Smoother acceleration
Reduced fuel consumption
More relaxed driving style
However, it also meant the car would accelerate more slowly, especially during overtaking.
How Economy Mode Worked
When drivers engaged the Economy setting, the car’s transmission system adjusted the shift points.
Instead of waiting until the engine reached higher revolutions, the gearbox would shift sooner to keep the engine operating at a lower RPM range.
This had several effects:
Improved fuel efficiency
Reduced engine wear
Smoother, quieter driving
Less aggressive acceleration
Some vehicles even modified throttle response, meaning pressing the gas pedal harder didn’t immediately cause rapid acceleration.
This encouraged drivers to maintain steady speeds and smooth driving habits, which further improved fuel economy.
Why Modern Cars No Longer Have an “E” Gear
As vehicle technology advanced, manual economy modes became unnecessary.
