Modern vehicles come in two different transmission types – automatic or manual. In a manual transmission, the driver is responsible for shifting the gears, while in a vehicle with an automatic transmission, the car does the shifting for you. The main difference between an automatic car and a manual car is that a manual has three pedals – the brake, the accelerator, and the clutch. The driver presses the clutch while manually changing gears using the gearbox. Automatic cars change gears, too, but they do it automatically, and they only have two pedals – the brake and the accelerator.
Manual cars are still the most common type of car, especially when it comes to smaller cars – though automatics are rising fast in popularity. It used to be common knowledge that manual cars were cheaper and more fuel-efficient, however, this isn’t necessarily true today. Some modern cars are only available with automatic gearboxes, and there are different types of automatic that use different technology. Some are more efficient than the equivalent car with a manual transmission, and some aren’t. And in terms of driver performance? What gearbox you use has no impact on how good or bad a driver you are. Many people just enjoy having more mechanical involvement in their driving. Basically, it all boils down to what you feel the most comfortable with.
We’d advise people to learn in a manual if they can, as it’s still the most common type of gearbox, and if you’re qualified to drive a manual then you can drive an automatic too. But it doesn’t work the other way around – so drivers who learn and pass their test in an automatic car will have to upgrade their license to drive a manual.
But in time, automatics will probably dominate the market because of the rise of hybrid and e-cars. Automatics are becoming more and more commonplace, so they’re now as efficient as a manual and don’t cost significantly more. With hybrid cars, the tech doesn’t work with a manual because the car needs to be in control of the speed range. And in the near future when we get to the first cars which are capable of conditional automated driving, they will be automatics – because there won’t be anyone to change the gears. It’s hard to predict exactly what driving will look like in the future, but there will definitely be a much larger proportion of electrified vehicles in the future, both hybrid and full electric.
In the end, the choice is still yours! And at Smiles, we can offer you both options. So call us today if you’re not sure, and we’ll help you decide based on your specific needs and circumstances – 082 377 9858, or send us an email and we’ll get back to you: info@smilesdrivingacademy.co.za
