How many types of car transmissions are there?
2 Answers
There are three types of car transmissions. Below is an introduction to the three types of transmissions: Stepped transmission: The most widely used type, employing gear transmission with several fixed gear ratios (multiple gears). Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT): Can vary infinitely within a certain range, commonly including electric and hydraulic types. Integrated transmission: A hydromechanical transmission composed of a torque converter and gear-type hydraulic transmission, where the gear ratio can vary continuously between maximum and minimum values across several ranges.
After driving for so many years, I've found that transmissions mainly come in five types: manual, automatic, manual-automatic (Tiptronic), dual-clutch, and continuously variable transmission (CVT). With manual transmissions, you have to press the clutch and shift gears yourself—it's fuel-efficient but can exhaust your legs in traffic jams. Automatic transmissions are much more convenient, completely eliminating the need to worry about shifting. Manual-automatic transmissions combine the best of both worlds: you can drive in automatic mode for ease or use paddle shifters for a more engaging driving experience. The unique feature of dual-clutch transmissions is their use of two sets of clutches, enabling lightning-fast gear changes and powerful acceleration. CVT-equipped cars offer an exceptionally smooth ride with no noticeable jerking, though don't expect thrilling acceleration. Nowadays, new cars rarely come with old-fashioned manual transmissions, as automatics and dual-clutch systems have become the mainstream.