Kia’s new iMT retains driver engagement and enhances fuel efficiency

KUALA LUMPUR: Kia recently announced an updated Rio model for the European market, which will not only have cosmetic changes but will also have hybrid powertrain coupled with a new clutch-by-wire manual transmission. The automaker also detailed the working of the new MT system in its press release.

Designed for a range of mild-hybrid Kia EVs, the ‘clutch-by-wire’ system is engineered to boost fuel efficiency and decrease CO2 emissions, while retaining the driver engagement of traditional manual transmission.

The system replaces the mechanical linkage for the clutch with a purely electronic wired connection and integrates with a 48V MHEV powertrain. It works with the mild hybrid’s starter generator to switch off the engine before the Idle Stop & Go start-stop system coasting to a halt. Thus, it improves the overall fuel efficiency as well reduces CO2 emissions by up to 3% in real driving conditions.

The selected gear remains engaged even with the engine off. It restarts in the same gear as the driver hits the brake or accelerator pedals. If the driver presses the clutch pedal to change gear or if the vehicle’s speed is too low for the currently engaged gear, the transmission resumes the engine in neutral.

The transmission development was done at the Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Center in Offenbach, Germany. Dr. Michael Winkler, Head of Powertrain at the centre, said, “We are always looking at new ways to improve powertrain efficiency and performance, and the iMT is one such innovation. An automatic or a dual-clutch transmission suits a lot of drivers, but European drivers in particular still love changing gear for themselves. Alongside the increasing demand for electrified models, the iMT is a result of us exploring ways to electrify the ‘classic’ manual transmission.”

He further added that electrification is an overarching development theme across their European powertrain division. The company wants to continue providing drivers with a familiar and engaging manual gear change, so this is an ideal solution for the new range of MHEV powertrains that would be rolled out across Europe in the months ahead.

Also read: 2020 Kia Rio facelift: A hi-tech hatchback with an electrified engine