If you made an electric conversion and used an induction motor it could still be stick! Induction motors have a narrow range of useful rmps so the transmission is still needed!

What is that retro-looking thing on the right?

Hurst "Lightning Rods" from the 80s. Basically a flashy way to manually shift an automatic transmission.

Good write up and explanation here: https://www.macsmotorcitygarage.com/a-cool-idea-at-the-time-the-hurst-lightning-rods-shifter/

What is that retro-looking thing on the right?

Hurst lightning rods shifter in an Oldsmobile. They are for drag racing.

My issue with automatics is that there's a lack of control. It's trying to be smart about changing gears and yet never ends up doing what I want. It's like the throttle is going over a bad internet connection.

Because there are no gears to switch I don't have that issue in electric cars, it even feels better than a manual: Smooth torque curve and instant throttle response.

(Also why are my question marks getting cut off? I typed 9 of them but only 3 show up.)

That's Big EV trying to silence you.

Just for the record, I see 9 question marks.