- Dual-clutch transmissions got their start on race cars, but nowadays, they're common on supercars.
- More recently, DCTs have moved to less-expensive vehicles.
- Typically, they can operate in automatic or manual mode, using paddle shifters on the steering column.
- I driven many DCT-equipped cars - here's a rundown of my favorites.
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As you all know, I love stick-shifts!
But as the manual transmission has faded from the automotive landscape, it's been replaced by a high-end technology that was actually invented in the middle of the 20th century, but that didn't wind up in application until Porsche and Audi started to use it for endurance-racers.
It's called a "dual" or "twin" clutch. In a nutshell, a dual-clutch transmission divides the gears into two sets, odd and even, and enables an interrupted flow of torque from the engine to the driveshaft. This eliminates the need for a clutch pedal and, typically by using paddle shifters located behind the steering wheel, enables the driver to click through gears quite quickly.
Matching engine revs on downshifts isn't necessary, and the transmission can also operate in full automatic mode. (DCTs are part of the overall global automotive supply chain; big makers include ZF, Getrag, and BorgWarner.)
Dual-clutches are their own kind of fun. I most often encounter them in high-horsepower supercars and sports cars, where they offer obvious advantages. But in recent years, "DCTs" have begun to appear more often on cheaper vehicles.
I've driven plenty - here's a ranking of my favorites: