How to Drive a Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission?
2 Answers
Dual-clutch is just one type of clutch transmission mechanism, and in terms of driving techniques, it is almost no different from a regular AT automatic transmission car. The specific details are as follows: 1. The difference between a dual-clutch automatic transmission and a manual transmission: The dual-clutch automatic transmission (abbreviated as DCT) is based on the manual transmission. Unlike the manual transmission, the two clutches in the DCT are connected to two input shafts, and the shifting and clutch operations are achieved through an integrated electromechanical module that combines electronic and hydraulic components, rather than through a clutch pedal operation. This is similar to a tiptronic hydraulic automatic transmission. 2. Manual shifting: The driver can manually shift gears or place the gear lever in the fully automatic D mode (comfort mode, shifting at low engine speeds) or S mode (sport mode, shifting at high engine speeds). Shifting in this mode is usually achieved by the gear and clutch actuators.
When I first started driving a dual-clutch automatic transmission car, I was a bit confused, but gradually got the hang of it after leaving the driving school. After getting in the car, I usually press the brake pedal, shift the gear lever to the D position to engage the automatic mode, and then gently release the brake to let the car glide out smoothly. During acceleration, I don’t need to shift gears—the system handles it seamlessly, though there’s a slight jerkiness in heavy city traffic, at which point I switch to S mode or manual mode to actively control gear shifts. I appreciate its fuel efficiency, especially on long highway cruises where the fuel consumption is noticeably lower than with a manual transmission. When parking, always remember to shift to P and engage the handbrake to protect the transmission gears. Beginners shouldn’t rush; practice a few times to get used to it, and you can even download related apps to monitor real-time fuel consumption for better judgment. The key is to maintain smooth driving—avoid stomping on the accelerator or shifting gears abruptly. I recommend new drivers first practice in an open area to get a feel for it.