Types of Car Transmissions – Different Types of Transmission in Cars

A transmission acts as the medium that transmits power generated by the engine to the wheels through a mechanical system of gears and gear trains. It’s the component that allows a vehicle to move efficiently and the driver can apply power to a vehicle in a controlled manner. 

There are different types of car transmissions, including the following:

  • Manual transmission.

This type of transmission will help you feel more connected to your car. A clutch pedal is used by the driver, along with a gear stick. Skill is required, and a driver will need to learn and practice to understand how to get the most efficiency, acceleration and power from the car. 

Manual transmissions are considered to be the most fuel-efficient. 

  • Automatic transmission.

This type of transmission automatically shifts gear and the driver will not have to do this manually. Sensors are used to monitor the vehicle’s speed and engine RPM and switch the gear ratio with the help of an electronic control unit. There are different types of automatic transmissions, including:

  • Torque converter transmission. 

This mechanism uses an advanced fluid coupling to amplify the torque produced by the engine to transmit power to the wheels. This transmission system works via two turbines, one of which is connected to the engine and the other to the transmission. 

Hydraulic fluid between both turbines transfers power from the turbine located on the engine side to the one on the transmission to induce movement. Cars with torque converter transmissions are easier to drive and provide ample torque to accelerate smoothly. 

  • Continuously variable transmission.

This type of transmission works through a pulley system, and two cones at each pulley are connected via a chain belt. These cones can move to increase or decrease the belt diameter to change gear ratios which allows it to have infinite gear ratios, and the transmission can shift quickly based on the requirements of the car. 

CVT transmissions can maintain constant engine revolutions per minute even though the vehicle moves at different speeds and this will not only boost fuel economy, it will also provide drivers with a smooth driving experience. 

  • Semi-automatic transmission.

This type of transmission combines the convenience and connection of a manual and automatic transmission and does not have a clutch pedal but does have a gear stick. Semi-automatic transmissions use an actuator to engage the clutch at the best engine speed to allow the driver to shift the gear perfectly. 

  • Dual-clutch transmission.

This type of transmission uses two clutches to shift gears. There are two gear sets placed in odd and even groups, and one clutch engages the odd group of gears while the other engages the even group. This engages gears quickly and smoothly because the dual clutches already have a gear engaged and ready to deploy once the previous gear has reached its gear range. 

Interested in Car Transmissions? Look no further!

Do you need more information regarding the different types of car transmissions? Alberta Drive-Line Rebuilders Ltd. can help. A car transmission is a vital part of a car because it helps in the transmission of power from the engine to the wheels and helps you drive. 

Customers in Edmonton can rely on our products and services, and you can contact us at any time for all of your transmission needs.