Jalopnik
Add another true automanual tranny to the growing list. Call it the M double-clutch transmission with DriveLogic. It's BMW's new 7-speed switchgear that's shipping with the new M3s, and likely will replace the divisive, largely poky and cumbersome — that is, without some serious futzing — M-Sequential (SMG / SMG II) automated manual. The SMG system uses a high-pressure hydraulic actuator to shift gears, with the latest version (i.e., SMG II) offering five automatic modes and six manual modes and shift times in around 80 miliseconds. In dual-clutch systems, like BMW's new system and VW/Audi's DSG, one clutch handles gears 1, 3, 5, 7 (and reverse) and the second handles 2, 4, 6 — they work alternately, engaging and disengaging in a complex dance that allows for uninterrupted upshifts at speeds of a few milliseconds. An algorithm takes into account throttle position, engine speed, road speed and shift mode in use when calculating shift management. What else do we know about the new M double-clutch transmission with DriveLogic? Click through.
1.) It offers the same collection of modes as SMG, allowing the driver to dial in a range of response patterns, from low-torque, second-gear starts on snow and ice, to comfort, to track day.
2.) It's the first dual-clutch box to be designed for engine speeds of up to 9,000 rpm, with a transmission fluid cooler to lengthen component life.
3.) Like the new Nissan GTR (but unlike the latest F1 cars), it has launch control. How does launch control work? Take it, BMW:
...all the driver has to do with the car at a standstill and in driving program S6 is move the sports shift lever to the front and hold it in this position. Then, as soon as the starter flag symbol comes on in the instrument cluster, the driver just presses down the gas pedal to automatically obtain the ideal starting speed on the engine. Pressing down the brake pedal lightly with his left foot, in turn, the driver can prevent the car from rolling forward, and by briefly tipping the cruise control lever he is able to finely adjust the desired starter speed. Then, after letting go the selector lever, the BMW M3 accelerates with optimum performance and with slip on the rear wheels controlled by the clutch — if the driver wishes, all the way to top speed.4.) Low-speed assistant, gradient detection.
5.) It sounds like a whole lot more fun than SMG.
Comments
Do what now?
I'm just going to go ahead and assume that one should take their foot off the brake also.
whats wrong with a gated shifter?
and don't forget to put in the crystals.
It works. You don't even know.
You forgot to mention it takes 1.21 gigawatts to power. or rather ///M Power, whatever the kids are calling it these days.
Spin...I thought you were limiting your posting to all things Italian.
Nonetheless, good to see you laying down digital ink, even if it's about Bruce.
@yellofury: I will always love manuals, but you got to admit that it's quite a complicated way to drive a vehicle. You're using all of your limbs to do something. I do prefer this type of engagement, but it's not the best way to handle a vehicle when your racing around a track.
@snep: But as much as their owners would like to believe, their third legs are still not prehensile enough to help out.
@ash78: I'm not sure I follow what you're saying. I keep thinking third leg as in penis. I'm not sure my penis helps me drive.
Launch control sounds pretty much the same as SMGII. I don't remember seeing the flag icon, but it sounds pretty cool. Assuming you aren't on a steep grade, or that the gradient detector still works in launch mode, you don't really have to keep your foot on the brake at all. Once you release the center shift stalk, BOOM GOES THE DYNAMITE!!! @ASH, speak for yourself...
Should be good for at least 10k miles before it explodes. Did they make it out of Nikasil? Just shift your own damn gears, rich people!!!!
so where's Chrysler's automated manual? Did they even mention it at the auto show?
Next from BMW, the electric fork.
wouldn't be easier to activate launch control by hitting up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A, select, start?
But what happens if I put the car into S6, push the lever forward until the starter flag appears, press the gas pedal, then the brake pedal, then pull the cruise control lever by accident?
wow did anyone notice the extra 264 lbs (120 kg) that the M DCT transmissio adds to this M3? And yet its still 0.2 sec faster in the 0-60. At least all that weight is in the lowest center point of the car.
Other than "presses down the gas pedal" it makes complete sense.
@badco-fascism: It brews a single cup of coffee.
@sho220: That's the feature I've been waiting for. SOLD!
Interesting. And I bet it blends!!!
OK, jokes aside. This ought to be great on tracks. And maybe really comfy on your daily commute as well.
I wonder when BMW is starting to offer a similar dual clutch for the rest of their range.
And to engage non-pretentious mode, just press Up-Up-Down-Down-Left-Right-Left-Right-A-B-A-B-Start.
@snep: COTD
I'm quite sure that I will have to see that "launch" in action before I try to comprehend the actual acrobatics the engine and transmission, or my feet and hands for that matter, have to undertake. I doubt mere words do it justice.
Volvo explained it in a way that seemed to sell me on the benefits of the dual clutch auto, however.
[www.swedespeed.com]
Dual clutch would rock on a 335d :D
Add lightness, not more modes.
Can someone post a DIY repair for slipping dual clutch gearbox and electrical/software malfunction? Ok thks.
Traction control should have settings for different road condition, NOT for the exact speed you want to start at. It should be completely transparent to the driver.
Does BMW bother to drive any of their cars in the real world any more?
If only Konami made cars...
@Mad_Science: This is my vote for COTD
I'm an Audi loyalist, but I would consider the M3 just for this transmission.
Looks pretty nice, but I would still prefer a true manual. Something about developing algorithms in the brain, and the thrill of accoplishing nice heel-toe downshifts all by yourself.
Would you want a computer to shift your wife for you? Sure, she'll get to the finish line a couple of tenths quicker, but wouldn't it also take some of the fun out of it?
Couldn't there just be an "Ignite" button?
@Andrewpetty:
That is some funny shit. PSX FTW!!!!!
So is this another Borg-Warner box or is it proprietary BMW?
i cant wait to be stuck behind some guy at the local drag strip taking 15min to stage as he trys to figuer out how to get the damn thing to lanch while flipping thro the instruction book...
still a bad ass car tho...
What? No credit for the tip email I sent with PDF attachment? Sheesh.
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