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Exploring the 5 Varieties of Drive Selectors in Automatic Cars

Exploring the 5 Varieties of Drive Selectors in Automatic Cars

Automatic cars have become increasingly popular in India, offering a more relaxed driving experience amidst growing traffic congestion. While most automatic cars have a traditional stick-like drive selector, premium and electric cars are introducing various shapes for a more varied driving experience. Let's explore five different types of drive selectors found in automatic cars.

1. Zig Zag Pattern Lever - AMT (Automated Manual Transmission)

This type of gear selector lever is common in AMT cars, which automate a manual transmission using hydraulic actuators controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU). The lever features a zigzag pattern to switch between park, drive, and reverse, with a manual mode for manual gear shifting. This affordable transmission type is found in mass-market cars from brands like Maruti, Hyundai, and Tata.

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Zig Zag Pattern Lever 

2. Forward & Backward Transmission Shifter - DCT, Torque Converters (AT), & CVT

This lever has a straightforward forward and backward pattern, mostly seen in cars with dual-clutch transmission (DCT), torque converters (AT), and continuously variable transmission (CVT). It often includes a manual or sport mode for more control over gear shifting and engine performance. These transmissions, offering a more refined driving experience, are used in most turbo-petrol, diesel, and hybrid cars.

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Forward & Backward Transmission Shifter

3. Toggle Type Drive Selector - Premium ICE Cars / EVs

Increasingly, premium ICE cars and EVs are replacing the traditional shift-stick with a toggle-type drive selector. This selector can be pushed forward or backward to change the drive mode, indicated by a backlit letter or displayed on the instrument cluster. This design allows for more central console space and a cleaner layout. Cars like the Citroen C5 Aircross, Citroen eC3 electric hatchback, and modern Porsche models feature this type of selector.

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 Toggle Type Drive Selector

4. Rotary Drive Selector

More common in Indian cars, especially in Tata models like the Nexon, Punch EV, Nexon EV, Harrier, and Safari, this selector requires rotating a dial to select the desired drive mode. Luxury brands like Land Rover and Jaguar have designed this selector to sit flush in the console when not in use and pop up when the car starts.

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Rotary Drive Selector

5. Stalk Drive Selector (Behind The Steering Wheel)

Though one of the oldest designs, the stalk drive selector is still used in modern cars, particularly from Rolls Royce and Mercedes-Benz. Mounted behind the steering wheel, it allows switching between drive modes by moving the stalk up or down as indicated by the P, N, D, and R markings.

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Stalk Drive Selector

These diverse drive selector types enhance the driving experience in automatic cars, offering convenience and style to suit different preferences.

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