What is Automatic Transmission & Its Benefits? How does it work?

Commuting by car is a simple task. However, the machinery of these vehicles is quite complex. One of the most complex components in a car is the automatic transmission. This smart technology performs tasks that the driver would normally have to complete, such as shifting gears. Since automatic transmission gears let drivers shift the speed and direction of the car automatically, many drivers are not familiar with what is automatic transmission and what it does. However, by understanding this component and its working principle, you will surely appreciate your car’s capabilities.

What is Automatic Transmission?

What is automatic transmission? Automatic transmission is a mechanism present in cars that shifts gears at different speeds without direction control by the driver. This feature will enable you to ride without concern about when to change the gears. Automatic transmission gears have become standard equipment on most passenger cars since its introduction. When the transmission is in the driving state, all the driver needs to do is depress the accelerator pedal, and the car will move forward. The transmission will automatically change its entire forward range of gears from low to high. Likewise, the transmission automatically switches from high to low when the car loses speed.

Types Of Automatic Transmissions

The different types of automatic transmissions are as follows:

Automated Manual Transmission (AMT)

What is amt transmission? Automated Manual Transmission, or AMT, is an automatic transmission that uses a sensor and an onboard computer to decide which gear to shift at what engine speed. AMT transmission comes with a selector stick that allows you to use when deciding on the driving mode. Once engaged, you may sit back, relax and drive as the AMT pushes the clutch and shifts gears. Automated Manual Transmission is rather smooth. However, drivers may experience a tiny shock when the ratios automatically change during up and downshifting.

Torque Converter

The oldest kind of automatic transmission is the torque converter. This mechanism connects two turbines, thus removing the need for a clutch. One of the turbines will be connected to the engine and the other to the transmission. Torque converters are as efficient as manual gearboxes, yet they are more expensive.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

CVTs are a newer kind of automatic transmission. The gear ratios in these transmissions vary continually based on the car’s speed. By connecting two conical pulleys, CVT uses a belt that changes the diameters. The belt allows the conical pulleys to move together or apart according to the gear ratio needed by inclination, speed, weight and descent. Since CVTs aim to maintain a particular engine revolution per minute, they are found to be quite efficient.

Benefits of Automated Transmission

The automated transmission allows you to move your car as you please without changing the gears manually. An automatic gear car is gaining quite popularity in the world of automobiles these days. The benefits of automated transmissions are as follows:

Greater Power

Automated transmissions have higher power. They have a whole gear set that the car employs in a variety of ways. This complete gear set consists of planetary gears, which are controlled by a single main gear or the “sun” gear. As a result, the torque of the car is spread over a larger region, enhancing the power.

Easy to Drive

Cars with an AMT are easy to drive. You just have to put the car on drive mode, and the rest of the work will be taken over by the gear set. The car will automatically swap gears, so you won't have to navigate or assess the road conditions to change gears continuously.

Improved Acceleration

When you start an automatic car engine from a standstill, it accelerates quite rapidly. To allow the gears to shift, you don’t have to step away from the gas while starting the car. Automated transmissions put the engine close to the torque optimal position, allowing for faster acceleration.

Safe to Operate

Compared to manual cars, automatic transmission cars provide more safety as you can put both hands on the wheel while driving without getting distracted. They allow you to keep focused on the road’s conditions, limiting the possibility of going off course.

How Automatic Transmissions Work?

When driving a car with an automatic transmission, shifting into Drive activates the system. Pressing the accelerator pedal causes the engine’s crankshaft to rotate more quickly, resulting in maximum pressure in the torque converter. As the vehicle moves ahead, the transmission’s hydraulics and electronics detect its speed in proportion to the engine speed, and the transmission automatically shifts gears in response.

In the typical automatic transmission, the hydraulics sense those speed changes. These hydraulics then trigger other hydraulics to shift gear in the planetary gear set. Modern automobiles feature enhanced sensing processes, and automatic transmission works in unison with the vehicle’s other systems.

Disadvantages Of AMT Transmission

The disadvantages of AMT transmission are as follows:

Delay in Gear Shifting

While driving an AMT transmission car, you can notice a delay in your input and the actual gear change. This can cause a less responsive driving experience for you.

Cause Sudden Shock

When switching between gears, AMT transmissions can cause a sudden jerk or shock. This inconsistent behaviour is mostly noticeable during aggressive acceleration or when towing heavy loads.

Automatic Transmission Cars

AMT cars in India are getting popular day by day. Some of the amazing automatic transmission cars that can make your driving experience smooth are as follows:

Toyota Fortuner 4x2 A/T

Toyota Fortuner 4x2 A/T is a luxury car run by a diesel engine and has an elegant exterior. The car also offers a stunning interior featuring comfortable seats and an electronic tailgate. For safer driving, the car comes with AMT. What is AMT in car? It basically combines a sensor and onboard camera, which allows drivers to decide which gear to change, depending on the speed.
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Ford Mustang V8 5.0L

Powered by petrol, the Ford Mustang V8 5.0L is a premium car that offers an automatic transmission, ensuring you experience a smooth ride without worrying about changing gears. In terms of both exterior and interior, this car speaks luxury and can turn a few heads when taken out on the road or off-road.
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Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 AMG Coupe

Geared with a 360-degree camera, sunroof and Alcantara seats, the Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 AMG Coupe is a class-apart passenger car. Not only does it look brilliant, but the car's automatic transmission also makes the gear change process smooth and hassle-free.
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BMW X6 X-Drive 40I M-Sport

The BMW X6 X-Drive 40I M-Sport is a top-notch luxury car with an outstanding driving experience with its automatic transmission system. Gear shift will not be the driver’s headache anymore. You just have to depress the accelerator, and the transmission will take care of the rest in terms of direction control.

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For an elevated driving experience, most people opt for cars with automatic transmissions. Though they can be a little expensive, the advantages they provide weigh much more than their expense. If you cannot afford a new automatic car now, Autobest offers pre-owned luxury cars with automated transmissions.

FAQs on Automatic Transmission

Do AMT-equipped cars cost more than manual-transmission cars?

Though the initial cost of AMT cars may seem a little higher, the overall cost of AMT-equipped cars is found to be lower than manual-transmission cars.

How does AMT affect fuel economy?

No. In fact, if your car is powered with AMT, the system can optimise gear change for better fuel efficiency.

Can AMT be used in all types of driving conditions?

AMT-equipped cars provide drivers with improved driving experience as they take them to test in different driving conditions, including highway driving, hilly terrains and urban commuting.