Vehicles today are equipped with manual or automatic transmissions catering to different drivers.
With auto-tech advancements came dual-clutch transmissions, which are drastically different from traditional automatic transmissions.
From Porsche’s PDK System to VW/Audi’s DSG, it’s clear that dual-clutch transmissions are betterbut why?
What Is a DCT?
Because of this, they are commonly known as Automated Manual Transmissions (AMTs).
The two-clutch system in a DCT transmission is what truly differentiates itself from a traditional automatic transmission.
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Unlike manual transmissions, DCTs have impeccable shifting ability in terms of timing and consistency.
This is courtesy of a two-clutch system that’s responsible for their odd and even gear sets.
Since a driver takes 0.2 seconds for an upshift on average, saving every second counts in performance scenarios.
To the uneducated eye, this might come off as additional marketing though it’s far from the case.
These are all variants of dual-clutch transmissions that tend to be manufacturer specific and catered for their performance vehicles.
DCT is an acronym for dual-clutch transmission and is commonly found on BMWs.
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DSG is an acronym for a direct-shift gearbox frequently paired with VAG Vehicles, such as Volkswagen and Audi.
Lastly, PDK stands for Porsche Doppel Kupplungs, which translates to Porsche dual-clutch transmission.
Here are some of the quirks and drawbacks of a dual-clutch transmission.
With the flawlessness of the shifts, missing a gear is never in the equation.
Because these gearboxes are highly efficient, it results in excellent performance on and off the track.
Cons
The drawbacks of sequential transmissions are few, though some exist.
Since these transmissions have so much to offer, they evidently require more service than traditional automatic gearboxes.
Because of this, these types of transmissions drive differently than those with torque converters.
DCT: Fast and Efficient Shifting
Automated manual transmissions can do more than just shift fast.
