What does 8AT mean?
2 Answers
8AT refers to a hydraulic automatic transmission with 8 forward gears. A hydraulic automatic transmission is a type of gear-shifting device composed of a torque converter and a planetary gear transmission. The torque converter is a hydraulic transmission device capable of altering the transmitted torque. There are four common types of automatic transmissions: Hydraulic Automatic Transmission (abbreviated as AT), Continuously Variable Transmission (abbreviated as CVT), Automated Manual Transmission (abbreviated as AMT), and Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT). Vehicles equipped with an 8AT transmission include the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, BMW 5 Series, Lexus LS460L, Lexus GS460, ISF, Rolls-Royce Ghost, Audi A8, Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8, among others.
8AT stands for 8-speed automatic transmission. As someone who has been repairing cars for years, I find its design quite ingenious, using eight forward gears to optimize power output. Gear shifts are smoother compared to old 4-speed transmissions, with minimal jerking, especially when climbing or accelerating, as the engine load is well-distributed, saving a lot of fuel. The downside is its more complex structure, making maintenance costlier. Regular transmission fluid changes are necessary to prevent wear, recommended every 60,000 kilometers. Overall, 8AT is a great choice for owners who frequently drive on highways, significantly improving driving comfort and reducing fatigue on long trips. Many mid-to-high-end vehicles now use it, eliminating the hassle of manual transmissions.