A Gearbox Alphabet Most of Us Know
In automatic cars, gear positions are familiar:
P = Park
R = Reverse
N = Neutral
D = Drive
And sometimes, L or S for low or sport modes.
Manual cars usually just show the numbered gears and R for reverse. But when you start digging into older vehicles, especially classics from the 1970s–1990s, you might spot something unusual — an “E” on the shift pattern.
What “E” Actually Stands For
The short answer? In traditional gearboxes, “E” stands for Economy.
This isn’t “Electric” or a secret turbo feature — it’s simply a gear or mode selected to prioritise fuel efficiency. When engaged, the transmission and engine are tuned to keep revs low, help the car shift earlier, and reduce fuel consumption — especially useful during steady‑pace highway cruising.
In some older cars, particularly certain German and French models from decades past, the E gear was a kind of overdrive gear: a higher ratio that reduced engine speed at highway speeds and saved fuel. In manual cars of that era, it might even have acted like an extra “top” gear.
Why It’s So Rare Today
Modern cars don’t usually have an “E” gear marked on the stick anymore — and for a good reason.
Today’s engines, transmissions, and onboard computers are far more efficient and sophisticated than older systems. Cars automatically adjust shift points, throttle response, and even cylinder activity to balance performance and economy — all without the driver needing a dedicated “economy gear.” Torque‑converter automatics, CVTs, and dual‑clutch systems handle this behind the scenes.
Meanwhile, the letter E has taken on new meaning in the automotive world — especially with electric and hybrid cars. In many modern electric vehicles and hybrids, E or “Eco” modes are driving profiles that maximise efficiency and range, often smoothing throttle response and enhancing regenerative braking.
A Nostalgic Reminder of Automotive Evolution
For drivers today, discovering an “E” on a gear stick is like finding a forgotten page of motoring history. It reminds us of a time when mechanical gear ratios were a primary tool for improving economy. Nowadays, far more complex systems do the same work automatically — and without any confusing letters on the selector.
So if you ever see an E on an older car’s shifter, now you know what it signifies: a gear or mode engineered to help that vehicle sip fuel more gently — a simple yet clever idea from a previous era of automotive design.
Want a quick breakdown of modern gear selector letters and what each one means? I can list them in a simple chart for you — just ask!
