What the “E” on Older Car Gear Sticks Meant and Why It Disappeared

For many years, drivers have relied on the familiar letters and numbers found on gear selectors to guide how their vehicles move. Manual cars typically display numbered gears along with an “R” for reverse, while automatic vehicles use letters like “P” for park, “N” for neutral, “D” for drive, and sometimes “L” for low gear. However, some older models included an additional marking—“E”—a feature that often surprises younger drivers who may not have encountered it before. Its presence once served a clear purpose, though it has gradually faded from modern designs.

The letter “E” stood for “Economy,” a driving mode designed to help reduce fuel consumption. When selected, it adjusted how the vehicle shifted gears, encouraging smoother acceleration and earlier gear changes to keep engine speed lower. This resulted in a calmer driving experience while using less fuel. In some vehicles, it also reduced throttle sensitivity, making it easier to avoid sudden acceleration. At a time when fuel efficiency was becoming increasingly important, this feature gave drivers a simple way to be more mindful of consumption without significantly changing their driving habits.