Mini Has a New Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission

Mini has announced that the Hardtop and Convertible models will receive a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission option with a new electronically controlled shifter. The new transmission, according to Mini, will offer a sportier driving experience compared to a conventional automatic thanks to quicker shifts. Larger models like the Clubman and Countryman, will retain the conventional automatic with the standard car using a six-speed unit and the S and JCW employing the eight-speed.

Unlike a standard automatic transmission, which has a torque converter, the dual-clutch transmission features two clutches, one handling even gears, the other handling odd gears plus reverse. While driving, the clutches interact with each other when the driver shifts, which causes one of the clutches to ready the next gear before the car needs it. In order to smooth out shifts and improve driving dynamics, the new dual-clutch transmission’s electronic control module has been programmed to analyze the driver’s habits to optimize its shifts. Navigation data is also taken into account to improve the gearbox’s shift strategy on all driving situations, allowing it to downshift before you take a corner or take advantage of engine braking when you slow down. A crawl function is also included to ensure smooth operation during traffic and low-speed driving. Gear spacing is also broader compared to the Aisin-sourced six-speed automatic used in current cars so that the engine speeds are more varied.

For improved fuel economy, the dual-clutch gearbox has been optimized to work with an engine start/stop system. In Green and Mid modes, the transmission has a coast function that decouples the drivetrain when the driver eases off the accelerator, allowing the car to roll at idle without any engine braking effects. The coasting function also takes advantage of the navigation system and the camera for certain active safety features and can automatically disable itself to utilize engine braking when taking turns or approaching an intersection.

Unfortunately, the dual-clutch transmission has not yet been confirmed for the U.S. market. For the 2019 model year, Mini announced that it will retain the six-speed automatic and eight-speed automatic options in the U.S. alongside the six-speed manual, depending on the model.

Source: Mini

 

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