Japanese Research Shows Benefits of Manual Transmission for Brain Health
A scientific study conducted in Japan has revealed that driving a manual transmission car slows down mental aging by exercising the prefrontal cortex.
A new study conducted by Japanese scientists examined the effects of driving manual and automatic transmission vehicles on the human brain. The research highlighted the effects of manual transmission in slowing down mental aging in the brain.
Comprehensive Research Conducted in Japan
Prof. Ryuta Kawashima, Head of the Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer at Tohoku University in Japan, and his team examined the effects of driving preferences on the human brain. This research revealed the differences between manual and automatic transmission car usage on mental processes.
Active Working Process of the Prefrontal Cortex
Using the clutch and changing gears while driving directly stimulates the prefrontal cortex region, which manages memory and decision-making processes. This process makes multiple regions of the brain work simultaneously as the driver monitors instantaneous speed and analyzes road conditions.
Effects of Automatic Transmission on the Brain
In automatic transmission vehicles, driving control being handled by electronic systems provides comfort to the driver. However, this reduces the number of decisions made while driving, lowering the brain's stimulation level and limiting mental activity.
Declining Rate of Manual Vehicles in the Market
While the research emphasizes the cognitive benefits of manual transmission, its market share continues to melt away rapidly. According to Best Car Web data, hybrid and automatic cars completely dominate the market in Japan.
Ratio of Manuals in Newly Sold Vehicles
The dominance of hybrid and automatic vehicles in the Japanese market is steadily increasing. Among newly sold passenger cars, the share of manual transmission automobiles has dropped to between one and two percent.