2015 Opel Adam Debuts Next-Generation Easytronic 3.0 Transmission
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While the U.S. sticks with its slushbox love affair, Europe keeps it creative with gearbox solutions for drivers. Opel has announced its latest Easytronic 3.0 automated-manual transmission for the 2015 Opel Adam. Tad of an oxymoron, no?
Well, let us explain.
The Easytronic 3.0 system, based on a manual transmission with low internal friction, works with small engines to provide the efficiency of a manual gearbox, with the ease of use from an automatic. In automatic mode, an electro-hydraulic actuator takes over shifting and clutching operations. The transmission electronics automatically select the most fuel-efficient gear for prevailing driving conditions, enabling the greatest amount of fuel efficiency.
Hydraulic cylinders and electric motors provide quick gear shifts, which also work with the driver should they begin shifting gears themselves in the half-automatic mode.
Combined with the 2015 Opel Adam‘s start/stop function, the Easytronic system offers superb fuel economy, allowing the Adam to move from Germany’s energy efficient class C, to B.
To make livability even greater, Opel engineered a “creep” mode, similar to taking your foot off the brake in an automatic transmission. This allows the driver to forgo the clutch and blipping the throttle.
The 2015 Opel Adam will display this latest transmission at the Istanbul Motor Show between May 22nd through 31st.
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GM should import this minicar from Germany to compete with the Italian and Asian minicars. It should be a candidate for an EV model using a similar version of the Spark EV power train.
As a Chevy, not a Buick. There’s a certain size range where it’s no longer considered luxury. This is a budget car, if it gets imported to the U.S., it belongs with Chevrolet with a hotter variant.