Supercars has confirmed Gen3 will continue to use a manual sequential gearbox system when it debuts next year.
Debate has raged since Gen3 made its first appearance at Bathurst in December last year as paddleshift emerged as a preferred option for a few industry heavyweights.
However, Supercars CEO Shane Howard said the overwhelming popularity of the manual sequential system ensures it will carry over into Gen3.
“Following the early rounds of testing in the prototypes, and unanimous support from the Gen3 Steering Committee, I can confirm the Camaro and Mustang will race using the current fully manual gear shift for 2023 and beyond,” Howard revealed.
“We strongly considered the overwhelming feedback from our fans, teams and drivers that the gear change mechanism and the commensurate skill required to down change properly cannot be lost in Supercars unique heat of battle on-track.
“We have always celebrated the difficulty that comes with driving a Supercar. The shifting of gears has become part of the artform required to succeed in our category.
“We’re very happy with the decision of the Gen3 Steering Committee and can now move forward with further Gen3 development.”
Outspoken in his support of the manual sequential system, Supercars champion Shane van Gisbergen is fully supportive of the decision.
“I’m stoked with this decision by Supercars. I was vocal about it, so was pretty much every other driver,” said van Gisbergen.
“We know the fans wanted the same thing we did, so I’m sure everyone is happier with this decision to keep the gear shift the way it is.”
Supercars commentator Mark Larkham also shared his support after detailing the Gen3 project to fans through a video series leading up to its launch.
“In my view, this is an important and correct outcome for Supercars and its fans,” said Larkham.
“We are a uniquely Australian category, with a uniquely Australian set of rules that is the envy of the touring car world.
“Part of that success story of Supercars has been the tools like manual shifting, anti-roll bar and brake bias cockpit activity, that showcase the athleticism, the physiology and the psychology of the driver.
“This is definitely the right outcome for Supercars, a sport like any other that is about human endeavour and putting athletes under pressure.”
The next round of Gen3 testing moves to Winton on February 22-23.