In the first half of the year only 7.9 percent of delivered new cars had a manual transmission. In the first half of the year, only 7.9 percent of new cars actually delivered were fitted with a manual transmission. For context on how this compares globally, you can look at broader manual transmissions versus automatic sales numbers and how the trend has already played out in other markets. Why Automatics Are Taking OverSeveral forces are pushing UK buyers toward automatics at once. The Department for Transport also keeps a clear line between automatic and manual licenses, confirming there are no plans to let automatic-only drivers legally operate a manual.