Automated Manual Transmission: All you need to know about

What is Automated Manual Transmission?

Automated manual transmission (AMT) is a type of semi-automatic transmission that is widely used in passenger cars and commercial vehicles. It combines the features of a manual transmission and an automatic transmission, and allows the driver to select between the two modes of operation.

In AMT, the gearshift is automated, but the clutch is still operated by the driver. This allows for a more seamless transition between gears, and eliminates the need for the driver to manually shift gears. AMT is often seen as a more affordable alternative to traditional automatic transmissions, as it does not require the same level of complexity or expensive components.

AMT is not without its drawbacks, however. One major downside is that it can cause jerky acceleration, as the clutch needs to be disengaged and re-engaged when shifting gears. This can be particularly pronounced in stop-and-go traffic. Additionally, AMT transmissions are not as efficient as traditional automatic transmissions and thus can lead to increased fuel consumption.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Automated Manual Transmission

Automated manual transmissions (AMTs) are a type of semi-automatic transmission that combines the best aspects of both manual and automatic transmissions. AMTs first gained popularity in Europe and Asia, but have become increasingly common in North America as well. Here are some of the key advantages and disadvantages of AMTs to keep in mind:

Advantages:

1. Increased Fuel Efficiency: One of the biggest benefits of AMTs is that they can help improve fuel economy. This is because AMTs don't have a torque converter like traditional automatic transmissions, which can cause slippage and result in lost energy. Additionally, AMTs often have taller gearing than their manual counterparts, which also helps to improve fuel efficiency.

2. Smoother Shifts: Another advantage of AMTs is that they often provide smoother shifts than traditional manual transmissions. This is because the computer can control the timing and pressure of the clutch, which helps to eliminate jerky or harsh shifts.

3. Easy to Use: One of the main reasons why AMTs have become so popular is because they're very easy to use. In most cases, all you need to do is put the car into "drive" and let the computer do the rest. This makes them ideal for those who don't want to deal with the hassle of shifting gears themselves.

Disadvantages:

1. Limited Control: One of the biggest disadvantages of AMT is that they offer limited control compared to traditional manual transmissions. For instance, you can't downshift with an AMT like you can with a manual transmission, which can be frustrating for some drivers. Additionally, there are often times when the computer will make shifts that you wouldn't necessarily make yourself, which can also be frustrating.

2. More Expensive: Another downside of AMTs is that they tend to be more expensive than traditional automatic or manual transmissions. This is because they require specialised parts and labour to build, which drives up the cost.

3. Less Reliable: Unfortunately, AMTs are often less reliable than traditional transmissions. This is because they have more moving parts and are therefore more likely to break down or have issues over time.

Overall, automated manual transmissions offer a number of benefits and drawbacks that you should keep in mind. If you're considering an AMT for your next car, be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully to decide if it's the right choice for you.

Should I buy AMT equipped car:

When it comes to deciding whether or not to buy an AMT equipped car, there are a few things you need to take into account. Firstly, consider what your needs and driving habits are. If you do a lot of city driving, for example, an intelligent manual transmission car can make life a lot easier. But if you do mostly highway driving, you might want to stick with a traditional automatic transmission.

Secondly, have a look at the overall cost of the car. An AMT equipped car will likely be more expensive than a comparable model with a traditional automatic transmission. So, if cost is a major factor in your decision-making process, that’s something to keep in mind.

Finally, think about resale value. AMT equipped cars tend to hold their value quite well, so if you’re planning on selling the car down the line, that’s something to factor into your decision.

All things considered, there’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to deciding whether or not to buy an AMT equipped car. It’s all about what works best for you and your individual needs and circumstances.