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In the 1980s, Porsche was looking for a competitive edge in the racing scene while still staying within race regulations. Since their turbocharged engines were already at the cutting edge of performance technology, they decided to create another drivetrain innovation. This legendary technology became the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) transmission, or translated, the “Porsche double-clutch transmission.” What is the PDK transmission and what makes it a killer app for your new Porsche? The Fred Lavery Porsche Company service team has some facts for you, Birmingham!
The 7-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe PDK is not an automatic transmission, contrary to what some in Rochester Hills might think. An automatic uses a torque converter and hydraulic pressure to initiate gear changes, but the PDK transmission uses human input with paddle shifters to trigger gear changes. It works like two manual transmissions running together at once, with one set controlling the odd gears while another controls the even gears.
The famous Porsche PDK transmission operates as if it were two manual gearboxes operating in sync to operate semi-automatically. The Porsche PDK transmission uses hydraulically actuated wet clutch packs for extremely fast gear changes. When you’re in an odd gear, the clutch packs engage the even gears, which leaves them spinning freely. This state is identical to how it would be in a manual transmission, meaning they can be selected nearly instantaneously. Gear changes in the Porsche PDK are so quick, they are nearly impossible to notice. They last only a few milliseconds!
Compared to a Bloomfield Hills manual transmission, the PDK shifts faster, meaning you get faster acceleration and faster lap times. The PDK transmission was developed for racing at first, but it offers plenty of advantages to casual drivers as well. With no clutch, you can focus more on your drive. And with an automatic mode, you’ll kill it on everyday drives. These are other features you can expect:
What Porsche models offer the PDK? These are the ones you can find it on:
Do you have more questions about the PDK transmission? Fred Lavery Porsche Company would love to tell you all about it! We’re always ready to answer your questions. Contact us today and we’ll guide you to the purchase of a perfect Porsche.
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