New Trends in Transmission Technology

The automotive industry is seeing a lot of changes due to advances in technology. From driverless cars to advanced safety features to fuel-efficient technologies, the automotive industry is experiencing a transformational shift that will continue to improve our driving experience year after year.

It stands to reason then that transmissions would benefit from advances in technology as well. As one of the most important components of your car, a refined transmission helps manufacturers sell more cars. Within the automotive industry, the following are some trends you can expect to see with transmissions.

Fuel Efficiency Will Drive Demand for Continuously Variable Transmissions

For decades, we have grown accustomed to hearing our gears shift while we drive. In fact, if we do not hear the gears shift, it is a sign that something may be wrong with the vehicle, especially when we are driving a vehicle with an automatic transmission. However, advances in technology have led to a more refined transmission, one that consumes less gas— the fuel efficient continuously variable transmission (CVT).

The CVT, introduced by Honda, makes transmissions more dynamic. Instead of your car automatically shifting to higher gears while you are driving, your car will shift gears based on assessing how you drive. By doing this, you will actually use less fuel than traditional transmission. Unfortunately, you will not hear your vehicle shift gears while driving a CVT.

Smaller Dual-Clutch Transmissions

If speed is what you need, then you may not have to wait long to take advantage of the dual-clutch transmission. Found in high-end sports cars, the dual-clutch transmission allows drivers to shift gears quicker and smoother than other cars. In recent years, there has been an effort to incorporate this technology into other types of vehicles in addition to sports cars. In fact, Honda offers a dual-clutch transmission to their customers who are purchasing a motorcycle. It is reasonable to expect that they will continue refining the technology so that other vehicles can take advantage of the technology.

The Use of Manual Transmissions Continues to Decline

Once a favorite among car enthusiasts around the world, the manual transmission is no longer the preferred transmission for many auto manufacturers. Regulatory requirements and increased competition are forcing manufacturers to look for more fuel-efficient technologies when it comes to autos, including technologies that specifically affect transmissions. As transmissions continue to see incremental changes, it is possible that manual transmissions will experience the same fate as the mighty dinosaurs—extinction. Although there are some auto manufacturers who continue to offer these vehicles, you can expect to see fewer and fewer vehicles with manual transmissions each year.

Many people continue to be fascinated by the automotive industry. Whether you are a car enthusiast, or you have a transmission that needs transmission that needs rebuilding, our team at My Transmission Experts is your go-to source for all automotive service, maintenance, and inspections. Our local automotive technicians offer high-quality service options and financing if you need transmission repair. If you are in or around the Houston area, we encourage you to stop by one of our shops so we can give you a quote on your next transmission repair or service.