Zeiss says new Batis lenses are focus by wire like all other Sony/Zeiss FE lenses.
SAR reader Luke managed to get an answer from Zeiss whether the new Batis lens line have focus by wire or not. Zeiss answered that:
The Batis lenses have “focus by wire”. Like the same innovative focusing features like the Sony/Zeiss FE type lenses. To allow quick and also precise manual focusing with an AF lens, the focusing distance will change according to the speed you turn the focusing ring. If you prefer mechanically coupled focusing rings, the LOXIA lenses might be the best solution for you.
Thanks Luke for sharing Zeiss answer!
The four mew A and E-mount Zeiss lens preorders:
Zeiss Batis 85mm f/1.8 lens at Adorama, Bhphoto.
Zeiss Batis 25mm f/2.0 lens at Adorama, Bhphoto.
Zeiss 24-70mm f/2.8 ZA SSM II at Amazon, BHphoto and at Adorama.
Zeiss 16-35mm f/2.8 ZA SSM II at Amazon, BHphoto and at Adorama.