Automatic transmission (AT)
* Shifts gears automatically according to engine speed and vehicle speed.
* Controlled by Electronic Control Unit (ECU).
* Does not require driver participation in gear shifting.
* May have different operating modes (eg sport, economy, manual).
Semi-automatic transmission (automatic transmission)
* Allows the driver to manually change gears, but the clutch is controlled electronically.
*Can have two operating modes: manual and automatic.
* In automatic mode, the box behaves like an automatic transmission.
* In manual mode, the driver changes gears using the steering wheel paddles or the gear lever.
Key differences:
* Driver participation: In an automatic transmission, the driver does not participate in gear shifting, but in a manual transmission, he can manually change gears in manual mode.
* Clutch control: In an automatic transmission, the clutch is controlled electronically, and in a manual transmission, the electronics control only the working clutch, while the driver is responsible for pressing the clutch pedal.
* Gear shifting: In an automatic transmission, gear shifting is carried out automatically, but in a manual transmission, the driver can change gears manually.
* Operating modes: An automatic transmission usually has several operating modes, while a manual transmission can only have two (manual and automatic).
* Design complexity: Automatic transmissions are more complex in design than manual transmissions.
Advantages of automatic transmission:
* Ease of use and comfort for the driver.
* Smooth gear shifting.
* Increased fuel economy (in some cases).
Advantages of PCP:
* More athletic behavior.
* Possibility of manual control of gear shifting.
* Lower maintenance costs.