Technology
DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox)
Two is better than one
The DSG is without doubt one of the most innovative ideas in automotive history - combining the comfort of an automatic with the agility, driving enjoyment and efficiency of a manual. Introduced at the start of 2003 in the Volkswagen R32, DSG features two fully automated gear selection programmes and a Tiptronic function that allows for manual gear selection. For the first time, sport-orientated drivers can experience gear change at the press of a button.
How does it work?
In essence, this gearbox is really two gearboxes joined in parallel to form one unit. Transversely mounted, it features a dual clutch system comprising of two wet plate clutches for which pressure is controlled electro-hydraulically. Clutch 1 (K1) operates the uneven gears (including reverse), clutch 2 (K2) operates the even gears.
What’s the result?
Thanks to DSG technology, the next gear stage is permanently idling, which in turn means no break in power otherwise common on automated manual gearboxes when changing gears. With gear changes now taking place in a few hundredths of a second – they’re almost unnoticeable. What is noticeable, however, is the incomparably dynamic, yet comfortable driving experience DSG affords. And with DSG available on a selection of TDI models, drivers will also enjoy the benefit of fuel efficiency. For the first time, the combination of an economic diesel engine with an automatic does not eliminate the fuel consumption advantages. Compared to conventional automatic gearboxes with hydraulic torque converters, DSG has up to 20 percent greater fuel economy.
Find out more about Volkswagen's Concept Cars.
