What is the ratio of manual to automatic transmissions in China?
2 Answers
The ratio of manual to automatic transmissions in China is 4:6. Here is a brief introduction to manual transmissions: 1. Basic Information: Manual Transmission (MT) A manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox, requires the driver to manually shift gears by moving the gear lever to change the gear engagement inside the transmission, thereby altering the gear ratio to achieve speed variation. The gear lever can only be moved when the clutch is depressed. If the driver is skilled, a car with a manual transmission can accelerate and overtake faster than an automatic transmission car and is also more fuel-efficient. 2. Composition and Structure: A manual transmission mainly consists of gears and shafts, which produce speed and torque variations through different gear combinations. In contrast, an automatic transmission (AT) is composed of a torque converter, planetary gears, and a hydraulic control system, achieving speed and torque variations through hydraulic power transmission and gear combinations. The torque converter is the most distinctive component of an AT, consisting of a pump wheel, turbine, and guide wheel, directly transmitting engine power and torque while also serving a clutch function.
I've been driving for twenty years and remember when manual transmissions were the vast majority, with everyone accustomed to gear shifting. But nowadays, automatic transmissions are becoming increasingly popular, and hardly anyone in the city uses manual transmissions anymore. Based on the car sales data I've observed over the past few years and the vehicles on the road, automatic transmissions account for at least 70% of the market, while manual transmissions likely make up less than 30%. This shift is mainly due to the faster pace of life and increased traffic congestion—automatic transmissions are more hassle-free, eliminating the need to constantly press the clutch and shift gears, and they also make learning to drive easier for beginners. Although veteran drivers like me may miss the control feel of manual transmissions, we have to admit that automatics are indeed more convenient, especially in traffic jams where your legs won’t get as tired. Another factor is technological advancement—the cost of automatic transmissions has decreased, and manufacturers now primarily promote automatic models. Overall, the proportion of automatic transmissions is still rising, while manual transmissions are mostly used in remote rural areas or for trucks and similar applications. For beginners, I’d recommend getting an automatic-only driver’s license to save trouble.
