Ford is set to add a high-tech new automatic transmission to its line-up, one which achieves the fuel economy of a manual gearbox but with the comfort and convenience of a normal auto.
Similar to Audi/VW’s DSG, the Ford box is called 'PowerShift'. The new lightweight transmission uses the latest electronically-controlled twin-clutch technology to change gear, and therefore does not need the complex and weighty sub-systems such as torque converter or planetary gears of regular auto boxes.
Both up and down-shifts are executed faster than normal auto gearboxes, and faster than drivers can achieve with a manual.
Driving with the Ford PowerShift transmission is as simple and easy as a conventional automatic transmission.
The system uses a standard automatic gear lever in the centre console with the usual P, R, N and D settings.
The gear lever can also be moved laterally to a parallel gate should the driver choose a sportier style and the option of shifting manually.
