What are the types of transmissions?

[StAliyah]

Transmissions are mainly divided into the following types: 1. AT Transmission: Officially known as Hydraulic Automatic Transmission, this is the most commonly encountered automatic transmission. The advantages of AT transmissions are obvious, offering more direct power, but the drawbacks are also prominent, including noticeable jerking during acceleration and relatively higher fuel consumption. 2. CVT Transmission: Officially named Continuously Variable Transmission, it is primarily represented by Japanese cars, with models from Honda and Nissan mostly using CVT transmissions. The characteristics of CVT transmissions are quite distinct. Since the gear ratio is not a series of discrete points but a continuous range of values, it provides excellent smoothness and outstanding fuel economy. However, the downside is also relatively obvious, lacking a burst point in instantaneous power output. 3. MT Transmission: Short for Manual Transmission, AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) is a hybrid between MT and AT transmissions. Its advantage lies in lower production costs and more convenient operation compared to manual transmissions. However, the disadvantages of AMT transmissions are more pronounced; improper operation can easily lead to strong jerking, significantly affecting comfort. 4. Dual-Clutch Transmission: Abbreviated as DCT, it employs two sets of clutches that alternately work to achieve seamless gear shifting. It is further divided into dry and wet dual-clutch transmissions. Dual-clutch transmissions offer fast shifting speeds and minimal power loss during gear changes.

[Alivia]

After years of driving, I've summarized that there are mainly several types of transmissions: the manual transmission is the most common, where the driver shifts gears themselves, offering a greater sense of control; the automatic transmission is the most popular, as the car shifts gears for you, making it especially convenient in city traffic jams; the continuously variable transmission (CVT) is now used in many cars, providing smooth acceleration without any jerking; the dual-clutch transmission is commonly found in sports models, shifting gears as fast as lightning; and the semi-automatic transmission is a combination of manual and automatic, ideal for beginners transitioning. Indeed, driving cars with different transmissions offers vastly different experiences—manual is more fuel-efficient but tiring, while automatic is more convenient but has higher maintenance costs. I recommend beginners start with automatic, then try manual once they're more familiar, as they'll notice their driving skills improve quickly. Additionally, regular maintenance of transmission fluid is key to extending its lifespan and avoiding malfunctions.

[Elliott]

From a technical perspective, the transmission family is quite diverse: First, there's the manual transmission, which relies on human operation and clutch engagement to shift gears; automatic transmissions use hydraulic systems and planetary gear sets to change gears automatically; continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) employ belts and cone pulleys for seamless shifting; dual-clutch transmissions combine two clutches—one managing odd gears and the other even gears—enabling rapid shifts; and semi-automatic transmissions are based on manual designs but incorporate automatic controls. These designs impact driving efficiency—for example, manual transmissions offer high fuel efficiency but require complex operation, while CVTs are fuel-efficient but costly to repair. I always remind friends that the type of transmission directly affects fuel consumption and comfort when choosing a car, so it's best to test-drive a few models for comparison. Regular inspections to avoid oil leaks can save a lot on repair costs.

[KiaraLee]

The evolution of transmissions is quite fascinating. Early mechanical manual transmissions were simple and reliable; automatic transmissions emerged in the 1930s, freeing drivers' hands; continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) were introduced in the 1980s, delivering smooth driving; dual-clutch transmissions rose to prominence after 2000, enabling rapid acceleration; semi-automatic transmissions served as a supplement. Nowadays, most cars come standard with automatic or CVT transmissions, while manuals are gradually becoming less common. These developments have made driving easier and also helped reduce emissions.