
Not all cars are automatic transmission now. Currently, basically all types of vehicles have both automatic and manual transmissions. Many car owners now prefer automatic transmission models. The advantage of automatic transmission over manual transmission is that it is easier to drive. Automatic transmission cars do not have a clutch, and both the accelerator and brake pedals are operated with the right foot. When driving, you only need to hold the steering wheel with your hands and control the accelerator and brake with your right foot. Automatic transmission cars usually use a hydraulic transmission device to replace the mechanical clutch of manual transmission cars, so there is no clutch pedal. When the engine speed is low, the torque transmitted by the liquid is limited and insufficient to push the car forward. When the gear lever is placed in the forward gear and the brake pedal is released, as the accelerator is pressed and the engine speed increases, the transmitted torque increases, pushing the car forward.

As a young person who frequently drives for trips, I've noticed that most cars nowadays are automatic. I remember when I took my driving test a few years ago, the instructor taught me how to drive a manual transmission car, but my first car was automatic. It made driving in congested city traffic much easier—just using my right foot to control the accelerator and brake without constantly shifting gears. Most of my friends also drive automatic cars, making manual transmissions feel like relics from a bygone era. The rise of electric vehicles has further accelerated this trend, as they are inherently automatic—Tesla, for example, only offers automatic transmissions. However, manual transmissions still exist, especially in some economy cars or for track enthusiasts. Among young people, there are quite a few fans of manual transmissions, mainly for the pursuit of driving pleasure. In summary, automatic transmissions have become the mainstream choice.

In my over 30 years of driving experience, I've witnessed the transition from manual to automatic transmissions. Manual transmissions once dominated the market due to their lower cost and fuel efficiency, but modern automatic transmissions have greatly improved in efficiency, offering smoother gear shifts and reducing accident risks by eliminating clutch operation distractions. Having driven various vehicles, I've noticed that high-end models are almost exclusively automatic, while even mid-range and economy cars increasingly adopt them, such as the new model series from Volkswagen and Toyota. However, manual transmissions remain quite common in some parts of Europe or rural areas, where driving habits differ. Overall, the market trend clearly favors automatic transmissions, with comfort and ease of use being key drivers, especially among family car users who prefer them.

From a technical perspective, automatic transmission vehicles now indeed dominate the market. As someone who studies automotive design, I've observed that automatic transmissions come in various types, such as traditional AT, CVT, and dual-clutch systems, which enhance both efficiency and driving experience. While manual transmissions offer more direct control, automatics are better suited for modern urban congestion scenarios. The rise of electric vehicles has essentially eliminated the need for manual transmissions, as battery-powered systems don't require traditional gearboxes. Manual transmissions still maintain a niche presence in high-performance or sports cars, but the overall market has clearly shifted toward automatics, and this trend will continue to grow in the future.

As a daily commuter, I highly recommend automatic transmission cars. Manual transmissions are simply torture in city traffic—constantly pressing the clutch with your left foot and shifting gears with your right hand is exhausting. After switching to an automatic, I found speed control much easier, with noticeable improvements in both safety and convenience. Automatic cars are now reasonably priced; while the initial cost might be slightly higher, maintenance is simpler with fewer clutch wear issues. Manual transmissions still persist in some economy models or among niche enthusiasts, but for everyday use, automatics are the smarter choice—they reduce fatigue and let you focus more on road conditions.


