At least some implementations of a transmission gear shifter include a first body rotatable among multiple positions, a second body rotatable among multiple positions, a retainer and first and second actuators. The retainer is movable relative to the second body between a first position in which the retainer prevents rotation of the second body, and a second position in which the retainer permits rotation of the second body. The first actuator is coupled to the retainer to move the retainer between the first and second positions. And the second actuator provides a force on the second body to rotate the second body when the retainer is in the second position.