Automatic Transmissions
Back in the day the automatic transmission was seen as a luxury item, needing a big engine and plenty of money in the bank, to pay for the fuel and the car. Cars with automatic transmissions were more pricey than their manual counter part.
Technology has now changed that point of view, although, some people still regard the automatic as a gimmick and too expensive.
The facts about Automatic transmissions
There are two main types of automatic transmissions used in the UK today. DCT,s and CVT,s
DCT stands for Dual Clutch Transmission.
- How it Works: The system functions like two manual gearboxes in one unit. One clutch handles 1st, 3rd, 5th (and 7th) gears, while the other manages 2nd, 4th, and 6th. While one gear is active, the computer anticipates the next and pre-engages it, making gear changes seamless.
- Performance: Known for extremely fast, smooth, and efficient gear changes.
- Types:
- Wet Clutch: Submerged in oil, often used in higher-torque applications for better cooling.
- Dry Clutch: More efficient, generally used in lighter vehicles to reduce fuel consumption.
- Driving Characteristics: Provides a “direct-drive” feel similar to a manual. At low speeds, it may feel slightly different (more jerky) than a conventional torque-converter automatic due to clutch slipping.
- Common Use Cases: Popular in performance cars (e.g., VW DSG, Porsche PDK) and specialized in Honda motorcycles for automated shifting.
- Pros and Cons
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Shift Speed | Significantly faster than manual or traditional automatic. |
| Efficiency | Better fuel economy due to direct connection. |
| Performance | Direct, “connected” driving feel. |
| Cons | Can feel jerky at low speeds/stop-and-go. |
| Maintenance | Generally more expensive to repair than manual. |
CVT stands for Continuously Variable Transmission. These transmissions provide a very smooth drive as they have no gears what so ever. Based on a pulley system.
- Advantages:
- Fuel Efficiency: Keeps the engine at its most efficient RPM, leading to better mileage.
- Smoothness: No gear-shifting, resulting in a seamless, jerk-free experience.
- Performance: Faster, more responsive acceleration from a stop.
- Advantages:
- Disadvantages:
- “Rubber Band” Effect: The engine may rev high while the car speeds up slowly, creating a disconnected feeling.
- Noise: Can produce a constant, high-pitched droning noise during acceleration.
- Repair Costs: While generally durable, they can be expensive to replace or repair if they fail.
- Maintenance: Requires specialized fluid and strict adherence to maintenance schedules to ensure longevity
Any other tips or trends?
If you are looking to the future nearly all new cars will have either DCT or CVT transmissions.
The manual gear box will become the gear box of the past, this is partially due to innovations in car power plants, Electric and Hybrid.
Money is now being invested mostly into these types of transmissions.
One of the major automotive car sales platforms highlighted the change in vehicle sales
Current vehicles for sale 435,000
Automatic transmissions Manual gearbox
276,000 159,000
These figure are a guide to the current market trends and change constantly.
