What does the M on an automatic transmission mean?

[Cavalcanti]

M on an automatic transmission refers to the manual mode of a semi-automatic transmission. Its function is to manually control the gear shifting (upshifting and downshifting) of the transmission. In manual mode, there's no need to depress the clutch, and the engine won't stall. Using M mode can help maintain strong power when climbing hills. The methods for using M mode are: 1. During overtaking, it can utilize the high torque of lower gears for faster acceleration to complete the overtaking maneuver more quickly; 2. When going downhill, it can fully utilize engine braking to reduce speed; 3. During high-speed driving, it provides faster acceleration and can use engine braking during emergency braking; 4. When cornering, it can use engine braking to decelerate.