You know, everyone says, "it's not an automatic". Perhaps someone with more technical knowledge can actually explain in more detail what the difference is. I mean, I don't expect a four-page description of how an automatic transmission works, but most people (like myself) have no idea what's going on in there. It's a bunch of tiny parts and rings and whatnot (I've heard the words "torque converter" thrown around) but I'm unclear as to why an automatic is vastly different from a "manual that does the shifting for you".
Think you said the magic words, "torque converter." There are obviously other differences but that's the major one. The true auto has internal clutches and shifts gears by hydraulic pressure, as compared to the smart manual which has a single clutch and shifts via motors. Pretty good explanation in the smart technical manual:http://www.smartcarofamerica.com/for...-manual-16233/
Manual transmissions require a clutch, so you can change gears. Those cars have a manually operated clutch (with your foot). This car is the same, except the clutch is operated by an electric motor. Hence, why if you match the revs well (let off the gas and time your shifts correctly) there is little difference, except no constant leg action in a "city" car.
Manual transmissions require a clutch, so you can change gears. Those cars have a manually operated clutch (with your foot). This car is the same, except the clutch is operated by an electric motor. Hence, why if you match the revs well (let off the gas and time your shifts correctly) there is little difference, except no constant leg action in a "city" car.
Further, torque converters rob power and fuel.
Torque Converters rob power not true thats why in race cars we get a lock up stall to hold the rpms where we want them and all ur torque is there
No plans to release a program update for the 2008s
I received this email a couple of days ago from the GM of smart center Seattle regarding the new programing for the '08 model.
"2009's are starting to arrive. Having driven the new model, I can tell you that there is a significant improvement to the shifting program. At this point, there are no plans to release a program update for the 2008s. My sources tell me that not only has the program been updated, but additional operational features of the car have been changed as well to achieve the faster, smoother shifts.
, there are no plans to release a program update for the 2008s. My sources tell me that not only has the program been updated, but additional operational features of the car have been changed as well to achieve the faster, smoother shifts.
Torque Converters rob power not true thats why in race cars we get a lock up stall to hold the rpms where we want them and all ur torque is there
Prior to the modern lock-up feature, there was always some torque converter slippage at all times, resulting in lost energy / motion transmitted to the wheels. Now, even though modern torque converters lock-up at various points (depending on the specific design & application), they still slip at certain periods during start-up and acceleration. They are still not quite as efficient as a manual (friction clutch) transmission or CVT. And, A/Ts are considerably larger & heavier than the compact smart transmission.
I received this email a couple of days ago from the GM of smart center Seattle regarding the new programing for the '08 model.
"2009's are starting to arrive. Having driven the new model, I can tell you that there is a significant improvement to the shifting program. At this point, there are no plans to release a program update for the 2008s. My sources tell me that not only has the program been updated, but additional operational features of the car have been changed as well to achieve the faster, smoother shifts.
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It's a bunch of tiny parts and rings and whatnot (I've heard the words "torque converter" thrown around) but I'm unclear as to why an automatic is vastly different from a "manual that does the shifting for you".
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