What Is A Semi-Automatic Gearbox?
What Is A Semi-Automatic Gearbox?
A semi-automatic gearbox contains features of both an automatic and a manual transmission. With a semi-automatic gearbox, you can drive in either fully automatic mode or manual mode. Offering the driver much more choice in how they choose to drive, but is this the right option for you?
n automatic mode, you operate it in the same way as you do in a fully automatic car.
It’s when manual mode is used that the driving experience is different. The driver can shift gears. This is sometimes done with a modified stick shift. The increasingly common method for shifting is with paddles on the steering wheel. Whichever method is used, the driver can only choose to go up or down a gear. They can’t select the equipment they want.
The shifter on a semi-automatic will have different options than what you find on a pure automatic. For example, there will be no Park option. The drive will instead be labelled automatic, and there will be an M for manual mode.
A semi-automatic gearbox, even in manual mode, still takes control of the gear change. The onboard computer controls the clutch, torque, and acceleration. So, there’s no clutch in a semi-automatic car. This means you can drive one even if you only have an automatic license.
Benefits Of A Semi-Automatic Gear Box
An automatic gearbox offers an effortless driving experience. There’s no need to manage the clutch for the gear changes. This means that automatic cars are an option for more drivers. With a semi-automatic vehicle, you still get all of these benefits.
A manual gearbox allows for a more controlled driving experience. The driver is in charge of when the gear changes happen. This will enable them to get exactly the performance they need at a given moment. For example, when you need to accelerate or for travelling on rugged terrain. When a semi-automatic gearbox is in manual mode, you have this same control.
Manual cars also tend to be more economical to drive. With a semi-automatic, you can still get the same gains, if you drive carefully.
A semi-automatic combines the benefits of both automatic and manual gearboxes. The only thing you’re missing out on is manually operating the clutch.
So, when is semi-automatic right for you? Typically, they can be a good choice if there are multiple drivers of the car, who have different preferences.