A dual clutch transmission (DCT) is a type of multi-speed vehicle transmission system, which uses two separate clutches for odd and even gear sets. It is an automated manual transmission with two sets of gears, each operated by a separate clutch. DCTs provide smoother performance than manual and automated manual transmission system and better fuel economy compared to automatic transmissions. As the gears shift smoothly and with a high-degree of precision, dual clutch transmission are often preferred in the arena of performance driving.Moreover, the DCT does not require the driver to change gears manually, gear selection process is automated so that a DCT can act as an automatic transmission.
The design is similar to two separate manual transmissions, but they are located in one housing and work together as a single unit. A dual clutch transmission can shift between high and low gears quickly and smoothly, allowing drivers to shift up or down as necessary. Despite the fact that these transmissions have two different types of clutches, can still offer great performance and a smooth ride. Typically, dual-clutch transmission systems are found in cars that have a lot of horsepower. DCT is more expensive than a manual transmission, but can save both money and fuel while improving acceleration and fuel efficiency. It’s often preferred by drivers who prefer the feel of a manual gearbox.
The global dual clutch transmission market was valued at US$ 16,316.3 Million in 2021 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 6.26 % over the forecast period 2021-2028, says Coherent Market Insights
In addition to providing an increased level of efficiency, a dual-clutch transmission also makes driving easier, thanks to the ability to shift gears in less time. Because of this, drivers only have to depress one pedal in order to shift gears. The DCT allows for quick shifts because the driver only has to press the other pedal. This type of transmission is easy to use, and it is becoming increasingly popular. A system works like a conventional manual transmission, but instead of using a single clutch, DCT uses two separate clutches for odd and even gear sets. The clutches are integrated into one unit. This type of transmission has a single housing, but functions like two different manual transmissions.
A dual clutch transmission provides maximum efficiency while driving, and because it is so efficient, it can be an excellent choice for performance-oriented cars. Dual clutch transmission is one approach to an automatic transmission, a transmission system in which clutch and shift operations are automated, maintaining the structure of manual transmission with its advantages such as direct-feel acceleration. DCT operates via several in-built computers. These computers eliminate the need for the driver to manually change gears and the entire process is automated. DCTs can be as efficient as manual transmissions and shifts faster than any human can. Which is why the application of DCTs in performance cars makes perfect sense.
DCTs typically deliver excellent fuel economy versus other types of transmissions, but they do have a few downsides. Thus, many automotive manufacturers prefer to use traditional torque-converter automatic or continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) in their vehicles instead of DCTs. However, dual clutch transmissions (DCTs) are gaining favor because they offer better fuel economy and higher performance than a regular automatic.
