How Self-Driving Cars Will Change Transmission Technology
As self-driving cars become more advanced, the automotive world – and all of us – are bracing for changes that will impact every component—including transmissions. The way these vehicles operate is already beginning to shape new designs and may ultimately redefine what we think of as a “transmission.” Software and tech will dominate.
Reduced Driver Input Means Simplified Transmissions
With the human removed from driving input and AI taking the place, controlling acceleration, braking, and gear selection, transmissions in self-driving cars may not need traditional gear-shifting mechanisms. In fact, some manufacturers are already exploring single-speed or simplified multi-speed transmissions for self-driving cars, particularly for urban environments.
Electric and Autonomous Technology Go Hand-in-Hand
Most self-driving car designs are also electric and this has implications for transmission design. Electric vehicles (EVs) typically operate with single-speed transmissions as electric motors provide instant torque. However, for higher speeds or varied terrain, autonomous EVs might benefit from multi-speed systems for better efficiency. This will open new design opportunities for specialised transmissions in these vehicles.
Precision Control with Transmission Software
Self-driving cars rely heavily on software for precision control, which means transmissions will also be largely algorithm-driven. While we may come to miss the days of controlling a car and the feel of being a driver, there should be smoother, more consistent shifting without driver intervention. there will also be constant feedback for the software to learn from. Future transmissions could be equipped with “smart” features that adapt to driving conditions in real-time, making the ride smoother and more efficient.
Potential for Increased Longevity
Because autonomous vehicles operate smoothly, transmissions in these vehicles could have a longer lifespan. Software-controlled driving minimizes sudden shifts, aggressive acceleration, and other actions that wear down transmissions over time. Journeys could also be longer too with no driver fatigue to factor in.
While it feels a mindset shift currently, will sitting in a car come to feel no different to being in a train? Yes, the train currently has a human driver, but the journey is not controlled by you as a passenger, you are instead free to relax, read or work (or bemoan the lack of seating space as you stand by the toilet). Being in a car, even your own car, could become just as passive.
The future of transmissions in autonomous vehicles promises both simplification and specialization. While many traditional features may change, we at North West Transmissions are excited about what’s to come and the role we can play in this new era of vehicle technology.
