The Manual Vs Automatic Debate

I'm seeing more and more companies going to automatics these days. I even noticed Volvo is now offering automatics as "standard or a no cost option".

I know this is a huge debate from many and many drivers don't want to see automatics take over the industry, etc...etc.

My question is why are several companies doing this? It seems as though maintenance and repairs would cost more? While I like being more in control of my shifting, I can see many advantages to them in terms of fuel cost and less driver fatigue, etc.

Fuel efficiency! They average about 3mpg better then manuals do. And though they may be more costly to repair they are becoming increasingly more reliable and the amount of money saved in fuel alone would more than out weigh the cost. Plus now that you mentioned that they are being offered at no additional cost over the manuals then companies have no added costs up front. We all know guys that want to hammer down and get through the gears quickly. This kills the fuel efficiency. With autos there's no way you can do that so they begin to save even more with just those drivers.

It's all about money my friend.

This may not be gospel truth but I heard somewhere along the line that the automatic transmissions are actually safer too. I wonder if this is true simply because it reduces the amount a driver must concentrate on. I'll be willing to bet that the automatic transmission might actually reduce costs of training. If you take the fuel savings as mentioned above, reduced training costs, and maybe added safety reducing insurance costs some and it may make the move worthwhile.

Fuel efficiency! They average about 3mpg better then manuals do. And though they may be more costly to repair they are becoming increasingly more reliable and the amount of money saved in fuel alone would more than out weigh the cost. Plus now that you mentioned that they are being offered at no additional cost over the manuals then companies have no added costs up front. We all know guys that want to hammer down and get through the gears quickly. This kills the fuel efficiency. With autos there's no way you can do that so they begin to save even more with just those drivers.

It's all about money my friend.

I figured as much!! Personally, I like the idea of the new auto's for reasons you mentioned. They tested manual shifting vs auto and they guy could not beat the auto. I watched this video :