Mastering the art of the quick shift

A DCT is great for fast shifting, especially on a racetrack, but what is it really? Thanks to Hyundai, check out how it works

ANOTHER of the popular acronyms appearing in our car tests is the DCT - but what is it exactly?

Thanks to the Hyundai Australia Technical Department for explaining just what a DCT is, and how it works.

A dual clutch transmission (DCT) is a type of automated transmission that uses two separate clutches for odd and even gear sets.

It combines the convenience of an automatic with the performance and efficiency of a manual.

A dual clutch transmission operates by using two separate clutches: one manages the odd-numbered gears (like 1st, 3rd, and 5th), while the other handles the even-numbered gears (like 2nd, 4th, and 6th).

As you drive in one gear, the next gear is already pre-selected by the second clutch, allowing for extremely fast and smooth gear changes without interrupting power delivery. Unlike traditional automatics, it doesn’t use a torque converter but instead relies on electronically controlled clutches for gear engagement.

A dual clutch transmission offers several advantages, including faster gear shifts that enhance acceleration and driving performance, improved fuel efficiency due to more precise gear changes, smoother power delivery with minimal interruption, and the convenience of automatic operation without a clutch pedal.

It also allows drivers to switch between automatic and manual modes, providing greater control and a sportier driving experience.

Dual clutch transmissions work especially well in performance models like Hyundai’s N models because they deliver extremely fast and precise gear shifts, which enhance acceleration and responsiveness.

They maintain continuous power delivery by pre-selecting the next gear, allowing for smoother and more aggressive driving.

These transmissions also support features like launch control and manual shift modes, giving drivers greater control and a sportier experience.

Additionally, in N models, the DCT is often tuned with reinforced components and cooling systems to handle the high demands of track and spirited driving.