Between the outstanding blend of fuel economy and quick shift times, there is no wonder why so many auto manufacturers are using Dual Clutch Transmissions nowadays. Dual Clutch Transmissions are also known as Twin-Clutch Gearboxes and Double-Clutch Transmissions. They are a type of semi-automatic or automated manual automotive transmissions. They use two separate clutches, one for the odd and the other for the even gear sets. In essence, they are really two separate manual transmissions which work together and are contained within a single housing unit. Typically, they are used in a fully automatic mode while some have the ability to enable the driver to manually shift gears even though the ability is still carried out by the transmission’s electro-hydraulics.
Originally, Dual Clutch Transmissions were invented by a Frenchman, Adolphe Kegresse prior to the onset of World War 2. Though, he was never able to develop a working and functioning model. The very first model was not developed until 1980 and was produced by Automotive Products (AP). They were originally used in the Ford Fiesta Mk1, Ford Ranger and Peugot 205.
Dual Clutch Transmissions Explained
A Dual Clutch Transmission as mentioned before, have two clutches which are arranged concentrically. The larger outer clutch drives the odd numbered gears as the smaller inner clutch drives the even numbered gears. As such, you can switch gears without disrupting torque distribution and shifting in general is quicker, easier, and smoother than for vehicles which have single clutch automated manual transmissions. This makes them perfect for vehicles that are typically driven on roads as the ride is overall smoother, without any jerking action arising from the gears switching.
There are two types of Dual Clutch Transmissions, those with two wet multi-plate clutches or two dry single plate clutches. The wet clutch is best used for engines that have higher torque power. The dry clutch is better suited for vehicles that are smaller in design and have lower torque power. The dry clutch also has the additional benefit of increased fuel efficiency, which is due to the lack of pumping losses of the transmission fluid in the clutches housing.
The Pros and Cons of Dual Clutch VS Traditional Manual Transmissions
There are a number of benefits for using a Dual Clutch Transmissions, but there are also a few drawbacks to be aware of as well. There are reasons they are not as widely used as their counterparts, but since their use is a growing trend among auto manufacturers nowadays, there is little doubt we will see more of them on the roads in coming years. Before discussing the Dual Clutch systems pros and cons, let’s go over traditional clutches first.
Traditional Manual Transmissions
As their name implies, Traditional Manual Transmissions have been the standard and most widely used clutch system for quite some time. There are really only two great bonuses to them when compared to Dual Clutch’s, those being Traditional Transmissions can keep the motor in power band with little to no turbo lag and the transmissions seem sturdier and feel more precise.
However, their biggest drawbacks are that it can become extremely tedious to have to shift and use the clutch when in traffic and the worst of all is that many people simply cannot use three pedals when driving. There is a rather steep learning curve when first trying figure out how to operate a manual transmission. Which are also both a few of the main reasons automatic transmissions were originally put into use. They made driving easier for the masses, and reduced the headaches of driving a manual transmission in traffic.
Dual Clutch Transmission
Now for Dual Clutch Transmissions, drivers will first notice the most obvious benefits. First of all they are easy to use in traffic and stop and go situations. Secondly, if manual shifting is needed, paddle shifters allow easy access to the power band. While thirdly when shifting up, shifting occurs quickly which also helps turbocharged engines as they can continue supplying power when it’s needed.
But on the negative side, turbo lag is much more noticeable and it takes a bit longer for it to kick in, or at least to tell it’s kicked in. Perhaps one of the biggest complaints is that from a stopped position, it can feel as though the vehicle hesitates a moment before actually engaging the gears. Then, once the vehicle begins moving and while in lower gears, there is a noticeable jerkiness while moving slowly. This is especially evident when compared to conventional automatics.
In The End
In the end, there is an obvious move occurring and that is to replace the traditional transmission system with Dual Clutch ones. As it stands now, and since they have not been as commonly used, dual clutch systems still have some growing pains to go through. However, if manufacturers are ever able to be rid the system of their obvious negative aspects, then there is little reason why they wouldn’t fully replace traditional transmissions in coming years. It’s something to look forward to in coming years. And for financial investors, its something to watch for. There are only a handful of companies which produce dual clutch transmissions, and if they become more widely used, and pick up large contracts with big auto manufacturers, there’s a great opportunity on the horizon. You’ll simply have to watch to see how it all unfolds.
About The Author:
The author of this piece is Damien S. Wilhelmi. If you enjoyed this article you can follow me on Twitter @CustParadigm. When I’m not writing about Dual Clutch Transmissions, I’m generally working for one of the best Transmission Service Shops in Denver Colorado, honing my skills further.
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