What are the types and characteristics of transmissions?
2 Answers
There are five main types of automotive transmissions: manual transmission, automatic transmission, CVT transmission, DSG transmission, and sequential transmission (AMT). The characteristics of these transmissions are as follows: Characteristics of manual transmission: The driver must manually shift the gear lever to change the gear engagement position inside the transmission, altering the gear ratio to achieve speed changes. Vehicles with manual transmissions are faster during acceleration and overtaking compared to automatic transmission vehicles and are also more fuel-efficient. Characteristics of automatic transmission: It uses planetary gear mechanisms to shift gears automatically based on the degree of throttle pedal input and changes in vehicle speed. The driver only needs to operate the accelerator pedal to control the speed. Characteristics of CVT transmission: It employs a belt and variable-diameter primary and secondary pulleys to transmit power, allowing for continuous changes in the gear ratio. This achieves the best match between the transmission system and the engine's operating conditions. Characteristics of DSG transmission: Unlike conventional transmission systems, DSG is based on manual transmission rather than automatic. In addition to combining the flexibility of manual transmission with the comfort of automatic, DSG can also provide uninterrupted power output. Characteristics of sequential transmission (AMT): It integrates the advantages of both AT and MT into an electromechanical-hydraulic automatic transmission. AMT retains the benefits of automatic shifting found in ordinary automatic transmissions while preserving the high efficiency, low cost, simple structure, and ease of manufacturing of the original manual transmission's gear drive. It can automatically shift gears based on throttle opening and changes in vehicle speed. The functions of the transmission are: to change the gear ratio to meet the traction needs under different driving conditions, allowing the engine to operate under favorable conditions; to enable the vehicle to reverse; to interrupt power transmission, allowing the engine to start and idle, the vehicle to shift gears or stop, and cutting off power to the drive wheels; and to achieve neutral gear, where the transmission stops outputting power when the clutch is engaged.
I drove manual transmission cars for many years and found the manual gearbox offers a strong sense of control, allowing me to decide when to shift gears—it's both fuel-efficient and fun. However, constantly pressing the clutch with my left foot in traffic jams was exhausting. Later, I switched to an automatic transmission, which is much more relaxed; just step on the gas in D mode and go, making it perfect for city commutes, though it’s slightly less fuel-efficient. Modern CVT transmissions are even more advanced, providing smooth acceleration without any jerking, with continuous shifting that feels seamless and delivers noticeable fuel savings. Dual-clutch transmissions shift lightning-fast and are common in sporty models, though maintenance can be a bit more complex. Overall, choosing a transmission depends on your driving habits: manuals suit those who love control, automatics offer convenience, CVTs strike a balance, and dual-clutches are for performance seekers.