what are automatic cars

[Pete]

An automatic car is a vehicle that changes gears on its own without any input from the driver. Instead of a manual gearstick and clutch pedal, you just select 'Drive' ('D') and the transmission automatically selects the appropriate gear based on your speed and acceleration. This makes driving significantly easier, especially in stop-and-go traffic, as it eliminates the need to constantly operate the clutch and shift gears manually.

The core component is the automatic transmission, which uses a complex system of planetary gearsets and a torque converter (a fluid clutch that smoothly transfers engine power to the wheels) to handle gear changes. Modern automatic transmissions are sophisticated computers that can adapt to your driving style for improved efficiency and performance.

Most cars on American roads today are automatics. They are the default choice for drivers seeking convenience and simplicity. While traditionally less fuel-efficient than manuals, modern multi-speed (8, 9, or 10-speed) automatics and Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) have closed or even reversed that gap. CVTs don't have fixed gears but provide a seamless, stepless range of ratios, often maximizing fuel economy.

Here's a comparison of common automatic transmission types:

Transmission Type	How It Works	Key Characteristics	Common In
Traditional Automatic	Uses planetary gearsets and a torque converter	Smooth shifts, tried and tested, can handle high torque	Trucks, SUVs, luxury sedans
Continuously Variable (CVT)	Uses a pulley and belt system for infinite ratios	Extremely smooth acceleration, often better fuel economy	Honda, Toyota, Nissan compacts
Dual-Clutch (DCT)	Uses two clutches for ultra-fast gear changes	Very fast shifts, sporty feel, can be jerky at low speeds	Performance cars (VW, Audi, Hyundai N)
Automated Manual (AMT)	A manual transmission automated by robots	Cost-effective, can be sluggish or jerky	Budget-friendly models

The primary advantage is ease of use. For daily commuting, it reduces driver fatigue. The main drawback is typically a higher initial purchase price and potentially more complex, costly repairs compared to a manual transmission.

[MacAnthony]

They're the cars where you don't have to shift gears yourself. You just put it in 'Drive' and go. No clutch pedal to worry about. It’s what pretty much everyone drives here. It’s just simpler, especially when you’re stuck in traffic on the freeway. You can focus on the road more. I learned on a manual, but I’d never go back. Automatic is just easier for everyday life.

[LeElisa]

Think of it as the car doing the hard work for you. The transmission is a smart system that reads the car's speed and how hard you're pressing the gas. It then automatically selects the right gear. Key parts are the torque converter for smooth power transfer and planetary gearsets. It's an engineering solution focused on driver comfort and convenience, making it the standard for personal transportation in the US.

[VanEdward]

As a daily commuter, my automatic is a lifesaver. That third pedal in a manual? I don't miss it one bit. In heavy traffic, an automatic transmission means I'm not constantly shifting from first to second and riding the clutch. It's just less stressful. I get in, press the brake, put it in 'D', and that's it. The car handles the rest. It makes driving feel more relaxed, which is what I need after a long day.