What are the categories of automotive transmissions?
2 Answers
Automotive transmissions are categorized into: 1. Stepped transmission; 2. Continuously variable transmission (CVT); 3. Integrated transmission. A transmission is a mechanism used to alter the speed and torque from the engine, capable of fixed or stepped changes in the output-to-input shaft ratio, also known as a gearbox. The functions of a transmission are: 1. To change the gear ratio, expanding the range of torque and speed variations for the driving wheels; 2. To enable the vehicle to reverse while maintaining the engine's rotational direction; 3. To utilize neutral gear for interrupting power transmission, allowing the engine to start, idle, and facilitating gear shifting or power output.
There are quite a few types of car transmissions. From my driving experience, manual transmissions are the old-school type, requiring you to press the clutch and shift gears yourself—great for driving engagement but can make your arm sore after long drives. Automatic transmissions use a torque converter to shift gears automatically, making them effortless and convenient, especially in traffic jams. There's also the CVT (continuously variable transmission), which has no fixed gears, offering smooth acceleration like a slide—perfect for city commuting, though repairs might be pricier. The dual-clutch transmission (DCT) uses two clutches for lightning-fast shifts, common in sports cars, saving fuel but sometimes causing jerks. Semi-automatic AMTs are cheaper, like a manual box with automatic control, but they respond slowly. As for electric vehicles, their transmissions are mostly single-speed, simple and efficient with minimal maintenance. Overall, manuals are fuel-efficient and durable, automatics are comfortable, and CVTs are smooth—your choice depends on personal habits and road conditions.
