A Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG) is an electronically controlled, dual-clutch, multiple-shaft, automatic gearbox, in either a transaxle or traditional transmission layout, with automated clutch operation, and with fully-automatic or semi-manual gear shifting modes. In simpler terms, a DSG is a type of automatic gearbox that automates two separate "manual" gearboxes (and clutches) contained within one housing and working as one unit. It was designed by BorgWarner and is licensed to the Volkswagen Group, with support by IAV GmbH. By using two independent clutches, a DSG can achieve faster shift times and eliminates the torque converter of a conventional epicyclic automatic transmission.
A DSG gearbox works by having two different clutches, two different input shafts, and two stacks of gears. One set of clutches is connected to the even gears, like two, four, and six, while the other set is connected to the odd gears, like one, three, and five. When the car is in first gear, for example, the second clutch is already engaged and ready to shift into second gear, which allows for faster and smoother gear changes.
In terms of driving, a car with a DSG gearbox is effectively the same as a traditional automatic, with just two pedals, the accelerator and the brake. DSG gearboxes are used by brands under the Volkswagen Group, including Volkswagen, Audi, SEAT, and Skoda.
