Select models of the Porsche and Lexus IS series are equipped with an electronically controlled 6 or 7 speed sequential-shift transmissions. There are several advantages sequential-shift transmissions, the primary being that you can either drive the car as a clutch-less manual transmission, or you can let the transmission decide when to shift just as you would with a regular automatic transmission.
Another advantage for race cars or owners of super fast cars like the Porsche is that it is impossible to make a mistake and put the transmission in first gear at high speeds. Which would waste both the engine and transmission.
As you can see in the video another advantage to sequential-shift transmissions is that the shifting mechanism has only “back” and “forward” movement when in the “drive” position, meaning when you are in manual mode you simply move the shifting lever forward or backwards to change gears.
Sequential-shift transmissions also have built-in protection against high-RPMs so it is impossible to “put” the car into low gear while traveling at a high rate of speed, meaning drivers can power through gears without the fear of burning up their transmission with a misplaced movement of the shifting lever.
Very expensive for the most part, yet some of the manufacturers realize the demand for sequential shift transmissions in the less expensive go fast cars. With that in mind expect to see affordable cars that are fuel efficient to start using less expensive versions of sequential shift tranny’s.
The public gets what it demands. If you own a car with a sequential shift transmission and are having problems with it we are considered to be one of the most knowledgeable authorities on this tiny share of the transmission market.
Regardless of why, if you are interested in this very special type of transmission, give us a shout and speak with someone who knows what they are talking about. It is not a subject for the un-knowledgeable. Call GotTransmissions.com for all of your transmission issues. 866-320-1182.
