What Is a Dual-Clutch Transmission?
A dual-clutch transmission is an automated manual transmission with two sets of gears, each operated by a separate clutch.
One clutch handles the odd-numbered gears, the other clutch the even-numbered gears. A transmission control module (i.e., computer) manages when the transmission shifts automatically, eliminating the need for the clutch pedal used on regular manual transmissions.
When one gear is engaged in a DCT, the computer is already queuing up the next gear, so shifts can be faster and smoother than in a conventional torque-converter automatic transmission. Power flow to the transmission also remains constant in a DCT unlike in a manual transmission, where depressing the clutch pedal to shift gears interrupts power flow.
