TVS Secures Patent For Semi-Automated Manual Transmission

Aiming to bring AMT technology to the two-wheeler segment TVS has secured the patent for a new semi-automated manual transmission.

You might have heard about the automated manual transmission (AMT) used in new generation cars. Now Chennai-based TVS Motors has secured a patent for a similar type of transmission for two-wheelers. It has been christened “SMT” (semi-automated manual transmission) and we can expect to see it on one or more of the upcoming TVS two-wheelers in near future.

The SMT is an evolution of the clutchless gearbox that TVS used six years ago in its Jive. That time it failed to impress many buyers but now the company has improved the technology, taking inputs from the revolutionary AMT gearbox. The advanced unit will add buttons on the switchgear to perform the gear shifting action electronically, instead of using mechanical force by the rider. That means, you just have to press the button and an electric motor will take care of the shifting according to the rider’s preference. 

Honda is already using a similar type of system in its high-end sports tourer, the VFR1200F, and the new adventure tourer, Africa Twin. However, the Japanese manufacturer uses this technology with an automatic transmission which makes it different from the one patented by TVS. The company also says that the SMT can be a useful technology for three-wheelers as they work on the same principle of transmission.

TVS' previous attempt for an unconventional two-wheeler transmission with the Jive failed due to some mechanical issues like larger shifting effort and unexpected behaviour of the powertrain. However, the newly patented system works on electrical effort which will even reduce the human effort as compared to the conventional system. The company also claims that it will not affect the fuel efficiency of the powertrain, which was another issue with the Jive.