I am fancinated by the new technology of dual-clutch automated transmission. And recently read the following article, http://blog.vehiclevoice.com/2007/09...ean_flair.html, that Ford has put this tecnology in 2008 Euro Focus (trans from Getrag, a company is specialized for this tech). The reason I mention this is that Euro Focus shares the same platform with our beloved Mazda3, and certainly hope that this exciting technology would come in the future mazda3. Finally there's hope we can get rid of the torque converter.....

Here's an interesting read that expalins dual-clutch transmission...
http://auto.howstuffworks.com/dual-c...ansmission.htm

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SexyLichi

 

GREAT!! And I agree.Torque converters are power/mileage wasters (a.k.a. "slush boxes") and with this technology available now, as well as CVT's, they should doaway with them.
As an MTX driver even I am interested to see/drive/try one of these. I've read that when properly designed and programmed these trannies not only shift faster than we can, but much smoother than most too.
I always said I'd have to lose my left leg to give up the MTX, but this development is one that interests even me.

edit: I have also wondered why someone doesn't develop a straight line, or sequential (ratcheting) shifter for current MTX cars? You're an engineer, would it be that hard to develop, Win?
Motorcyclists know this technology well, and even racer cars have had it for years.
I've asked Kevin @ TWM this question, but I guess they weren't interested as I never got a direct answer from them.

 

Virg, though i am not in the auto industry, but a sequential shifter (rachet) for the current MTX (instead of the H-patterned shifter) should not be difficult to design/make. don't know why they didn't make it. could it be that the H-shifter the de facto MTX standard? or the rachet shifter does not alllow you skip gears? or maybe it takes away the joy of moving your right hand around? don't know.
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Liona cam

 

My thinking is that reverse could be a problem, trying to make it work w/a ratchet shifter, that is.... but I am no expert. I know that they work, but I'm not sure how they work. I've not seen the inner workings of a sequential.
I personally wouldn't have trouble w/o the ability to "skip" gears as I almost never do that now.
To me the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages. If the bikers can do it, so can I.