An automatic car, also known as an automatic transmission car, is an automobile equipped with an automatic transmission that does not require the driver to manually shift gears. The transmission, or gearbox, is responsible for directing the rotational force and speed of the vehicle. In an automatic car, the transmission uses sensors and internal oil pressure to shift gears at the appropriate time, allowing the driver to focus on other aspects of driving.
Here are some key features and advantages of automatic cars:
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Ease of use: Automatic cars are easier to drive, especially in stop-and-go traffic, as the driver only needs to select the "Drive" (D) mode on the shifter, and the car takes care of the gear changes. This makes them a popular choice for city driving.
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Widely available: Automatic transmission cars have become the majority in many countries, such as the United Kingdom, where a majority of new cars have had automatic transmission since 2020. Several manufacturers, including Mercedes and Volvo, no longer sell manual transmission cars, contributing to the growing prevalence of automatic transmission.
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Smooth and efficient: Automatic transmissions provide seamless gear transitions, effortless acceleration, and smooth deceleration, thanks to the intricate interplay of gears, hydraulics, and electronics. This makes for a more comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.
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Integration with safety systems: Automatic transmissions can be easily integrated with safety systems like Autonomous Emergency Braking, contributing to the overall safety of the vehicle.
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Various types available: There are different types of automatic transmissions, such as traditional hydraulic automatic transmissions, continuously variable transmissions (CVT), dual-clutch transmissions (DCT), and automated manual transmissions (AMT). Each type offers its own advantages in terms of performance, fuel efficiency, and driving experience.
