Is AMT an Automatic Transmission?
2 Answers
AMT is an automatic transmission. AMT, or Automated Manual Transmission, operates by adding a computer-controlled automatic operating system to the basic structure of a manual transmission to achieve automated gear shifting. The AMT transmission is an integrated electromechanical-hydraulic automatic transmission that combines the advantages of both AT and MT. AMT not only has the benefits of automatic shifting like a conventional automatic transmission but also retains the high efficiency, low cost, simple structure, and ease of manufacturing of the original manual transmission's gear drive. It is modified from a manual transmission, retaining most of the original assembly components, with only the gear lever part of the manual operating system being altered.
I've driven an AMT car for ten years, technically speaking, it counts as an automatic transmission. AMT stands for Automated Manual Transmission, which is essentially a manual gearbox but with an added electronic control unit that automatically handles the clutch and gear shifting for you. When driving, you don’t need to press the clutch or manually shift gears at all—the system takes care of all the actions, so the driving experience feels just as effortless as a pure automatic transmission. Of course, its simple structure and low cost make it particularly effortless in traffic jams or city driving, unlike manual transmissions that can tire your feet. However, AMT sometimes has gearshift jerks, especially noticeable as hesitation during acceleration. Overall, if you’re looking to save money without manual operation, AMT is definitely a great choice. I recommend starting with entry-level models, as many budget cars come equipped with it, and maintenance is relatively cheap—just be mindful of regular clutch wear checks.