Is a 7-Speed Dual Clutch Transmission Considered a Manual-Automatic Transmission?
2 Answers
7-speed dual clutch transmission is based on manual transmission rather than automatic transmission, but it is an automatic transmission. Dual clutch must be an automatic transmission, so a 7-speed dual clutch is first an automatic transmission, and then it is also a manual-automatic transmission. Both manual-automatic transmission and dual clutch transmission are types of automatic transmissions, and they are upgraded products of automatic transmission vehicles, making driving more comfortable and adaptable to various road conditions. The following are precautions regarding dual clutch transmissions: 1. Advantages of dual clutch transmission: Dual clutch transmissions have fast shifting speed, small size and weight, and low energy consumption, so some performance cars use dual clutch transmissions. 2. Dual clutch transmissions do not have a torque converter. Improper operation can cause the clutch to slip, overheat, and result in unnecessary wear. The clutch will only disengage when the brake pedal is pressed.
I've driven quite a few 7-speed dual-clutch transmission cars, and they do support manual shifting function, so they can be considered as semi-automatic transmissions. However, their structure is completely different from traditional semi-automatic transmissions. Traditional semi-automatic transmissions use torque converters for gear shifting, providing better smoothness; while dual-clutch transmissions rely on two sets of clutch plates to switch gears, offering lightning-fast shifting speeds like racing cars. In traffic jams, dual-clutch transmissions tend to be jerky, but the manual mode with its plus/minus shifting is particularly thrilling. Many performance cars now use this type of transmission, and it feels especially exciting when driving on mountain roads with paddle shifters. However, for city driving, traditional semi-automatic transmissions are still more worry-free.