What is a semi-automatic?

How does a semi-automatic work?

A driver in a car equipped with a semi-automatic does not have to (dis)clutch, but must shift gears himself. The latter can be done by giving a “tap” to the (conventional) transmission lever or “flipping” the shift handles directly behind the steering wheel (if any). Meanwhile, the driver’s left foot can continue to rest on the designated support in the foot compartment. The Ferrari 430 Scuderia with F1 gearbox is a good example of a car with semi-automatic transmission.

What is the difference between an automatic and semi-automatic?

The main difference between a semi-automatic and a fully automatic transmission is that in the latter, the (moment of) downshifting and upshifting is also entirely automatic. Or in other words, the driver does not have to physically clutch and shift gears at all (just accelerate, brake and steer in the right direction). However, most fully automatic transmissions have a manual mode so that, for the driver who wishes to do so, he or she can still determine the moment of shifting independently.

Here you can read all about the CVT automatic. Also read: