Different Types Of Automatic Transmissions

It has seen that a boom in the use of automatic transmissions as more people enjoy the convenience they bring to driving. Industry estimates place the number of cars sold in UAE with automatic transmissions at 17.3%. This represents a startling increase over the 1.4% market share that auto transmissions held in 2011. 

The affordability of manual transmissions has led to their continued popularity, but their use has declined in many other nations. The ease of driving that automatic transmissions offer—the lack of gears and a clutch not only makes learning to drive faster but also easier—is one of the primary reasons why they are quickly gaining popularity. 

Although there is only one form of manual gearbox, there are numerous types of automatic gearboxes on the market, and each has benefits of its own. Let's go over them in more depth in this KharabCar.com blog.

Torque Converter

The earliest type of automatic gearbox is the torque converter, which is a marvel of engineering. A torque converter uses two turbines—one attached to the engine and the other to the transmission—instead of a clutch. 

Power is moved from the engine turbine to the gearbox turbine by a fluid that sits between the two turbines. Although torque converters are more costly than their manual equivalents, they are just as efficient. 

Automated Manual Transmission – AMT

An actuator and an onboard computer are used by an automated gearbox known as an automated manual gearbox, or AMT, to decide which gear to change at what engine speed. You must use the selection stick that comes with AMTs to choose the drive mode. 

Once activated, you can just kick back, unwind, and drive; the AMT will take care of the clutch and gear changes. Although the AMT is reasonably smooth, you may experience a small shock when shifting up or down automatically. Many cars have the economical AMT gearbox arrangement.

Continuously Variable Transmission – CVT

A more recent kind of automatic gearbox is called a continuously variable gearbox, or CVT. The gear ratios in this type of gearbox are constantly adjusted based on the vehicle's speed. This is accomplished using two conical pulleys connected by a belt that, in response to variations in weight, inclination, descent, and speed, moves together or apart to adjust the diameters. Because CVT strives to keep the car’s engine turning at a consistent revolutions per minute (RPM) even when the vehicle is moving at different speeds, it is incredibly efficient.

Dual Clutch Transmission/Direct Shift Gearbox – DCT/DSG

Two clutches are used in a direct shift gearbox, also known as a dual-clutch gearbox, to automatically shift gears. Two independent clutches are used to drive gears arranged in odd and even groups of 1 3 5 and 2 4 6. 

Unlike AMT and manual transmissions, this gear design avoids power loss because the gears are already engaged and prepared to be deployed as soon as one gear rpm is reached. A DSG/DCT gearbox provides a seamless and effective driving experience and is typically seen in luxury vehicles.

Intelligent Manual Transmission – IMT

A newest automatic transmission model is called Intelligent Manual Transmission. Despite not having a clutch, iMT gearboxes require manual gear shifting in contrast to other types. When the gear stick moves, sensors provide data to an actuator, which then engages the clutch. Similar to a manual gearbox, the driver controls fuel economy and gear changes.

FAQs

What is the best automatic gearbox?

It all depends on your needs; if you want a nice and seamless driving experience, a CVT is the best gearbox; if you want performance, a DSG is the best. If you're concerned about fuel efficiency, the torque converter, AMT, and the most recent IMT are all excellent choices.

Who can operate a car with an automatic gearbox?

Anyone can learn to drive an automatic gearbox because it is so simple to use. The complexity of driving is reduced and it becomes enjoyable to learn when there is no clutch or gearbox. An automatic transmission car can be driven by anyone with a valid driver's license.

In an automatic gearbox, how are the gears changed?

With a computer, an actuator, several mechanical components, and sensors, it's an extremely complicated system. For instance, an AMT shifts gear utilising an actuator and additional mechanical components by using the engine speed sensors and onboard computer.

Should I get an automatic gearbox vehicle?

Select an automated gearbox if you are a novice driver and lack confidence in shifting ratios. But, automatic transmissions are not inexpensive, and purchasing one will require paying a sizable premium. On the other hand, choosing an automatic vehicle on Spinny can result in significant cost savings. 

Which automobiles come with automatic transmissions in Dubai?

Is it likely that you will receive an automatic car in Dubai? The majority of cars in the UAE are automatic, therefore it is highly likely that you will receive one if you don't mention otherwise.