You’re kidding me

Because electronic transmission controls and “Eco” buttons have replaced it. The functionality is still there—it’s just not labeled “E” on the gear selector.

I drive an old car with “E.” Should I use it all the time?
No. Use it for steady-speed highway driving. Use “D” for city driving, hills, towing, or when you need acceleration.

Will “E” save me a lot of gas?
Modestly. You might see 1-2 mpg improvement on the highway. The bigger impact is driving style (smooth acceleration, steady speeds, reduced idling).

My car has an “E” but I’ve never used it. Am I missing out?
Not really. The fuel savings are small. If you’re happy with your car’s performance in “D,” you don’t need to use “E.”

A Final Thought: The Forgotten “E”
Here’s what I love about the story of “E.”

It’s a reminder that cars—like language, fashion, and technology—evolve. Features that seemed cutting-edge in one decade become obsolete, forgotten, and then rediscovered by a new generation.

The “E” on an old gear shift isn’t just a letter. It’s a time capsule. It tells you about the 1970s oil crisis, the rise of fuel economy concerns, and the mechanical ingenuity of early automatic transmissions.

And now, when you see that mysterious “E,” you won’t guess “Electric” or “Emergency.” You’ll know the truth.

It stands for Economy. A small, forgotten effort to save gas—one gear shift at a time.