For decades, drivers have been familiar with the standard layout of gear sticks. Manual cars typically show numbered gears and an “R” for reverse, while automatics display “P,” “N,” “D,” and “R” — sometimes with an “L” for low gear. So when some motorists spotted an unexpected “E” on certain older gear sticks, confusion was understandable.

The mystery gained traction after it was highlighted by Supercar Blondie, where followers were asked if they knew what the “E” meant. Experienced drivers were quick to explain: it stood for “Economy.”

In select older vehicles, the “E” setting functioned as an Economy mode designed to improve fuel efficiency. It worked similarly to a high gear, keeping engine revolutions lower during steady driving to reduce fuel consumption. At a time when fuel economy was becoming a growing concern, this feature offered a practical way for drivers to consciously prioritize efficiency.

As automotive technology advanced, however, the need for a dedicated Economy gear faded. Modern cars now rely on computerized engine management systems, advanced fuel injection, and improved aerodynamics to automatically balance power and efficiency. Drivers no longer need to manually select a fuel-saving gear — the vehicle handles optimization in real time.

Today, the letter “E” has taken on an entirely different association. In the modern automotive world, it is most commonly linked to electric vehicles, which operate without traditional multi-speed gearboxes and often feature simplified controls or digital selectors instead of conventional gear sticks.

In that sense, the “E” represents an interesting evolution. Once it symbolized Economy mode — a mechanical solution to fuel savings. Now, it reflects the broader shift toward electric mobility and a new era in transportation.