Most drivers know the usual gear markings. Manual cars show numbered gears plus R for reverse, while automatics use P, N, D, and R, sometimes L for low gear.
But some older cars had an extra letter: “E.”
In these vehicles, E meant “Economy.” It was designed to improve fuel efficiency, especially during steady driving. The setting encouraged lower engine RPM and smoother gear behavior to reduce fuel consumption—an early way to help drivers save fuel on long trips.
As car technology improved, this feature became unnecessary. Modern vehicles use computerized engine management and advanced transmissions to automatically optimize fuel use, so drivers no longer need a separate Economy gear.
Today, the letter “E” is more commonly linked with electric vehicles, reflecting the shift toward cleaner, more efficient transportation. What was once a simple fuel-saving gear has become a symbol of the automotive industry’s move toward an electric future. 🚗⚡