I have a stupid question.

Is the 08 xB auto trans electronically controlled? What I mean is, is the shifter actually a switch box that sends signals via wires as to whether you want P R N D etc. instead of being mechanically linked to the transmission?
Or is that not even what "electronically controlled" means? :?

The shifter is mechanically linked to the transmission so you are manipulating the forward and reverse. Everything else is electronically controlled. The computer controls normal shifting and if you switch to manual mode you control it electronically.

The shifter is mechanically linked to the transmission

Bummer. I was hoping it'd be possible to move the shifter to a different location in the car just by splicing in some longer wires. Oh well.