Is the BMW i8 Manual or Automatic?
2 Answers
The BMW i8 is equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. Introduction to Automatic Transmission with Manual Shift Mode: In vehicles with automatic transmission and manual shift mode, when switching from Drive (D) to Manual (M) mode, the clutch or brake for a specific gear remains engaged. For example, if a 6-speed automatic transmission is in Drive (D) mode and operating in 3rd gear, switching to Manual (M) mode will keep the transmission in 3rd gear. In this case, the 35R and UD clutches inside the transmission remain engaged, keeping the transmission fixed in 3rd gear. Role of TCU (Transmission Control Unit): When the driver switches from Drive (D) to Manual (M) mode, it does not involve changing the engagement of the clutches for different gears but rather alters the transmission control logic. The transmission remains in a specific gear, and the TCU does not automatically shift gears; instead, the driver must manually shift up or down. If the driver wants to drive in a lower gear, the engine speed increases significantly, enhancing the vehicle's acceleration capability. Conversely, if the driver prefers to drive in a higher gear, the engine speed remains lower, making the vehicle more fuel-efficient and providing a more comfortable ride.
I recently test drove the BMW i8, which is an automatic transmission vehicle with no manual option available. This makes the driving experience exceptionally smooth, especially on city roads, where you can enjoy the thrill of acceleration without the distraction of shifting gears. The i8's hybrid system combines an electric motor with a gasoline engine, and the automatic transmission works seamlessly, delivering smooth and efficient gear changes. When switching to Sport mode, the transmission responds incredibly fast, making it feel like driving a supercar. BMW might have skipped the manual version because the automatic transmission is more suitable for daily use and allows for optimized energy management through electronic systems. In terms of driving feel, the automatic transmission makes the i8 quieter at low speeds, utilizing pure electric mode for eco-friendly and energy-efficient driving. Overall, as someone accustomed to automatic transmissions, I find this design highly practical, eliminating a lot of hassle.
