Originally Posted by
oXYnary
This is getting away from the electronics. But I have wondered. Why haven't two speed transmissions been allowed in more classes?
Several reasons.
1. Electric generally doesn't need it. Unlike fuel burners, electric motors make maximum torque at zero rpm, so gearing down for torque isn't needed so much. You could still get performance gains with it, but they would be smaller and largely cancelled out by the added weight and drag.
2. Most two speed systems use a one-way that would eliminate engine braking. Therefore you would need a completely separate braking system just like fuel vehicles. Do you really want to have to add a disk brake and servo to the car?
3. Cost and complexity.