Do manual vehicles or automatic vehicles use more fuel? The answer is not what you think!

After fuel prices are at record levels, we pay more attention to it fuel saving One of the important points is of course the choice of vehicle.

Manual vehicles provide lower fuel consumption If you are thinking about it, you should stop there and read our content. Remember that some myths may change as technology develops. But how? Let’s explore the topic in depth.

Let’s start with the technical part and look at the principle of operation of manual and automatic transmissions.

It is a complex mechanism that transfers the power from the engine to the wheels. automatic transmission system; The torque converter, which allows power transmission via hydraulic fluid, consists of several sets of teeth and a hydraulic control unit that controls the shifting between these gears.

Shifting into automatic transmission, It is performed smoothly and continuously, without driver intervention. As the vehicle accelerates or decelerates, the transmission automatically shifts to a higher or lower gear.

In vehicles with manual transmission, the driver directly controls engine power and gear changes. Coordinated actions of engine, clutch, gearbox and driver When shifting gears, the driver first engages the clutch pedal and disconnects the engine from the transmission. Selecting the gear also selects the gears that transmit engine power to the wheels, after which the clutch is released and the throttle is accelerated.

Especially for experienced drivers, it becomes possible to save fuel by optimizing the engine efficiency of vehicles with manual transmission. But this is what we say It’s a bit outdated. Well, at least some of it.

Why is it said that vehicles with automatic transmission use more fuel?

Why is it said like that? Because people say so in conventional automatic transmissions Remained. We mentioned that in cars with automatic transmission, a torque converter component is used instead of a clutch. The disadvantage of gearboxes that transmit power to the wheels is that they are heavy and inefficient.

The deadly enemies of fuel consumption Considering that there is weight and inefficiency in between “Vehicles with automatic transmission use more fuel.” discourse arises. It was more difficult to stay in the optimal speed range, especially because old automatic transmissions had only 3 or 4 gears.

What changed?

CVT transmission

Cars with automatic transmissions have come of age. Engines with more power are now used to provide smooth shifting and eliminate negative effects. Several technological changes are coming to automatic transmission vehicles.

One of them is some automatic connections. With this system, electronic computer control replaces the clutch. They are actually lighter and cheaper than traditional automatic transmissions. The disadvantage of some automatic clutches is that the car’s brain sometimes does not immediately select which gear the car should be in. Therefore, vibrations may occur when switching gears.

Double automatic clutches is known for its pioneering role in Porsche. In this system, which works as a single automatic transmission, the vehicle can pre-select the gear to be shifted into. Almost so a seamless transition is provided. While it is a quick and smooth transition, the only downside to this clutch is that it is more expensive than other transmission options.

There are also CVT transmissions. Continuously variable transmissions (CVT).It works a little differently than other gearboxes. CVT changes the configuration of the drive belt that transmits power from the engine to the wheels. Although once commonly used in small city cars, it has now become favored in powerful family and performance cars.

How do these transmission types contribute to fuel economy?

Previously by gearboxes There was the fact that manual cars use less fuel. Because automatic transmissions were inferior in weight. In addition, the number of gears in old cars with automatic transmission was usually 3. However, today modern automatic transmissions There are 7, 8 and even 9 gears available.

The high number of switchable gears also completes the vehicle the ability to stay in the most efficient speed range It is also increasing. This means less weight, better power distribution, more efficient gear selection and fuel savings.

In addition, automatic vehicles now have the same basics as manual vehicles and improved gear ratios. semi-automatic vehicles It is also a reason for preference. These vehicles allow fuel economy to be maintained while also offering modes that adapt to different terrain types or desired performance levels.

It’s not about what you drive, but how you drive.

save fuel It’s not just about the transmission system. Even if you drive a car with a manual transmission, if you are not a professional, do not shift gears when you should, and your car gets tired, you can consume your fuel very quickly.

Whichever vehicle you choose, there are many things you need to know to achieve better fuel economy. in your car without you even realizing it. Some variables can cause you to use more fuel. By viewing our relevant content, you can take better care of your vehicle and use your fuel more efficiently.

Should I buy a car with a manual or automatic transmission?

After this content, you now know that manual transmission vehicles no longer guarantee better fuel economy. When it comes to purchasing a vehicle, if this is one of your options modern automatic transmissionIf so, you should consider other factors besides fuel economy.

Short Advantages and disadvantages of manual and automatic transmission vehicles Let’s approach the end of our content by touching on the following:

Advantages of manual transmission vehicles

• Manual gearbox, driver control over the vehicle offers maximum. Direct control over engine power and gear changes is especially beneficial when accelerating and climbing hills.
• Manual transmissions are generally less complex than automatic transmissions and can be repaired if they fail. repair costs are lower it could be.
• Vehicles with manual transmissions are generally cheaper in terms of purchase price than vehicles with automatic transmissions. It is more economical.

Disadvantages of manual transmission vehicles

• Learning to drive with a manual transmission can be challenging, especially for new drivers. Requires coordination and timing It’s a process.
• In heavy traffic and city use, continuous shifting and use of the clutch It can be tiring.
• Manual transmission, driving focus more required. This may cause distraction for some drivers.

Advantages of vehicles with automatic transmission

• Automatic transmission offers ease of use, especially for beginners and drivers stuck in heavy traffic. To change gears It takes no extra effort.
• For long journeys and heavy traffic, automatic transmission makes driving more comfortable. The driver only has to take care of the gas and the brake.
• Thanks to their optimization, modern automatic transmissions are in some cases more efficient than vehicles with manual transmissions. faster acceleration can offer.

Disadvantages of vehicles with automatic transmission

• The pleasure of driving a manual car Automatic transmission vehicles can be at a disadvantage for those who want them
• Automatic transmissions are more complex and require maintenance or repair. costs more it could be.
• Automatic transmission vehicles are generally more expensive than manual transmission vehicles. is more expensive.

Naturally, both vehicles have different aspects and advantages. Besides this comparison that we have briefly mentioned is our main important topic fuel economy Taking this into account will help you purchase a vehicle.

Which transmission type do you prefer? We are waiting for your experiences and comments.

Other content you need to know about cars: There is no more topic that we have not discussed 🙂