By way of introduction, I convert gas cars to electric. I have a client who LOVES volvos, but the issue is the newer models she is interested in are not available with manual transmissions. Auto trannys are problematic for electric conversion because you have none of the usual engine sensors sending signals for when to upshift/downshift.

I would like to know if a 'newer' volvo tranny, say something newer than a 2000, would function if all it had was rpm information?

alternatively, could I bypass programmed shift points, and perhaps wire in manual switches directly to solenoids for a semi-automatic 'tiptronic' system like a paddle shifter mode?

failing all that, would it be possible to forget shifting completely and make only R and 2nd gear available? An electric motor can't stall and has enough torque to start in second, and an rpm limited top speed would be acceptable...

thoughts? comments?