Will Hyundai’s iMT Revive the Manual Transmission?
iMT means shifting gears on a hot summer day in bumper-to-bumper traffic will no longer be quite the chore it once was.
What in the world is iMT? If I told you that you could drive a stick shift without having to use a clutch pedal would you? If you answered “Yes”, then you’re the target consumer of Hyundai’s latest mechanical innovation.
iMt, or Intelligent Manual Transmission is a new form of clutchless manual transmission by Hyundai. According to The Drive, the application will be for the Hyundai VENUE. But, what is its purpose? And how will this affect the automotive market?
Fun Without the Hassle
Hyundai claims that its goal for the iMT is to provide all the fun of true manual transmission gear shifting without the hassle of a clutch pedal.
For many motorists in heavily populated areas, this is a dream come true. Operating the clutch is easily the least enjoyable part of driving manual when in heavy traffic. It can be tiresome repeatedly extending your foot to the floor.
But with Hyundai’s iMT technology, that would no longer be an issue.
How it Works
iMT will debut with the Kappa 1.0 l T-GDi engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. It utilizes an intention sensor, hydraulic actuator, and transmission control unit (TCU) to operate the clutch without further human input.
First, the TCU receives signal from the intention sensor. Next, the TCU signals the hydraulic actuator to engage. The hydraulic pressure then operates the Concentric Slave Cylinder (CSC) which controls the clutch and pressure plate.
Maybe that’s all gibberish to you. But the gist is this; move the stick and your gears are changed. No additional input require.
Will the US Get iMT?
Many Americans select automatic transmissions for the same simple reason; lazin– err… convenience. Most of us simply can’t be bothered to throw in the third petal. But, many of us are thereby missing out on half the fun.
As of right now, India is receiving iMT Hyundai VENUE, not the US. Hyundai has not yet stated whether this technology could make it to the States. But, this could potentially be a great way of staving off the death of the manual transmission.
What it Means for the Future of Manual Transmissions
Hopefully, Hyundai takes a chance and brings some to the US. If they do, they could be building the perfect bridge for drivers interested in manuals but too afraid to take the plunge.
Ultimately, if more people begin to enjoy the sensation of slotting gears, then it’s reasonably safe to assume that many would want to take the next step and throw in a clutch pedal.
If this happens, we could very well see a manual transmission revival of sorts.
Photos: Hyundai
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