>when automatic transmissions are consistently outperforming humans at fuel efficiency
Do you have data to back this up? Unless you're driving a dual clutch "dry" transmission or a CVT, because of Physics, an automatic transmission will always be less efficient. The Automatic transmission Torque converter [1] will waste some of the energy provided by the engine, especially with city driving.
Also, most automatic cars tend to shift gear up too early, and can't switch to gear n+2. Because of this, you spend more time accelerating to your cruise speed. It's well known that accelerating rather quickly to your cruise speed is the optimal strategy for fuel efficiency, hence the reason to switch from 3rd to 5th gear directly.
With a manual, you can also disengage the clutch when you consider it safe (and not slowing down traffic) and you know you're going to have to stop at the red light.
Do you have data to back this up? Unless you're driving a dual clutch "dry" transmission or a CVT, because of Physics, an automatic transmission will always be less efficient. The Automatic transmission Torque converter [1] will waste some of the energy provided by the engine, especially with city driving.
Also, most automatic cars tend to shift gear up too early, and can't switch to gear n+2. Because of this, you spend more time accelerating to your cruise speed. It's well known that accelerating rather quickly to your cruise speed is the optimal strategy for fuel efficiency, hence the reason to switch from 3rd to 5th gear directly.
With a manual, you can also disengage the clutch when you consider it safe (and not slowing down traffic) and you know you're going to have to stop at the red light.
[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z5G2zQ_3xTc