A Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) is a type of multi-speed vehicle transmission system that uses two separate clutches for odd and even gear sets. The design is often similar to two separate manual transmissions with their respective clutches contained within one housing, and working as one unit. In car and truck applications, the DCT functions as an automatic transmission, requiring no driver input to change gears.
DCTs are controlled by electronics that engage the clutches and issue commands to the transmissions internal hydraulics. Each of the two clutches is responsible for engaging a different set of gears, allowing for faster and smoother gear changes than traditional automatic transmissions.
DCTs were first used in the 1961 Hillman Minx mid-size car and have since become increasingly widespread, supplanting hydraulic automatic transmissions in various models of cars. DCTs are also used in motorcycles, with Honda being a great exponent of the technology. The purpose behind a DCT is to reduce the gap between gear shifts to a minimum, with the benefits being improved performance and fuel efficiency.
