There’s nothing like driving a standard vehicle and feeling the immediate responsiveness based on switching gears. Available on the Ford Focus and Ford Fiesta, the PowerShift 6-Speed automatic transmission allows for the best of both worlds with the performance feel of a manual and the convenience of the automatic transmission.
How does it work?
The transmission is two separate transmissions mounted side by side. One half contains gears 1, 3, 5 and the other 2, 4, 6. Together, the dual dry clutch design shifts electronically and takes up less space due to lack of torque converter, and helps reduce the overall vehicle weight. The unique transmission delivers more direct mechanical connection to the engine.
Since the clutch and gear operation is derived from a manual transmission, Powershift will drive, sound, and feel similar to a manual without the required shifting inputs. Dual clutch technology, which produces continuous torque to the drive. This is similar to technology used in racecars like: Aston Martin, Ferrari, Lamborghini, and McLaren.
How does it feel to drive?
Driving a Powershift transmission means you may experience situations that are normal, but new to you. You may notice the following:
– A slight vibration under light acceleration or during a coast down as the transmission up or downshifts. Firm gear shifting under aggressive acceleration
– Mechanical sounds when shifting or after the vehicle has been turned off
When on the road starting from a dead stop, there’s a quick response and smooth gearshifts as the engine manages the RPM’s to the appropriate gears. Versus a manual transmission, there are less stop and go rolling stops, plus less abrupt gear engagement at low speeds. Instead of jerky merging acceleration, the transmission allows for smooth firm shifts for enhanced yet refined feeling of response.
Benefits
So, what’s the benefit of a direct mechanical connection and less weight? Enhanced fuel efficiency and fun performance.
The Powershift 6-speed automatic transmission delivers a 7-9% efficiency improvement over a traditional 4-speed automatic. Dry clutch design eliminates losses due to pumping of transmission fluid Reduced weight equals less gas used.
Overall, the improvements allow for faster shifting and continuous torque to the drive wheels makes for a pleasurable drive providing you more control.