The use of automatic transmission cars is becoming increasingly common. Changes in design have made them ever more fuel efficient which is an advantage for drivers who are not skilled in economy driving. Less work changing gears leaves a driver to keep both hands on the wheel and concentrate on the road ahead. Older drivers and people with disabilities can benefit from the lower physical demands of driving in automatic cars.
If the driving test is passed in a manual transmission vehicle then the license covers both types of transmission. Taking the test in an automatic car limits the driver to this type of transmission only. As most company fleet cars will have manual gearboxes this can be a disadvantage in the jobs market so even if your preference is to own an automatic car it is still worth passing the test in a manual.
An instructor who teaches in an automatic driving school car
An instructor who teaches in an automatic driving school car has a niche market and they usually tend to be busy. People taking lessons with such a school can be particularly nervous and need more lessons than average making pupils more long term. This puts the instructor in an excellent market position. Pupils who have tried to learn in a manual and have experienced difficulties would be referred to the school by other instructors providing a steady stream of work.
Difference between driving the two types is that automatics
The main difference between driving the two types is that automatics offer less direct control through the accelerator. Releasing the accelerator in a manual slows down the car as pressure builds up in the pistons. A process known as engine braking. Releasing the accelerator in an automatic driving causes it to shift up a gear which can lead to the car feeling like it is running away, particularly if driving on a downhill slope. This is overcome by good use of progressive braking followed by gentle acceleration through the hazard. Pressing down on the gas pedal will cause an automatic to drop down a gear which may not be expected and may take a while to get used to for a new driver.
Intelligent use of the handbrake is essential in automatics.
Intelligent use of the handbrake is essential in automatics. If the handbrake is not applied and the car is hit from behind it will try to take off. Keep the car in drive so you are ready to move away and put the handbrake on. Don’t hold it on the foot brake as this does not fully secure the car and if it’s dark and rainy the brake lights can dazzle the driver behind. Putting the car in neutral will prevent the car from creeping and if you’re waiting a long time then selecting park will lock the transmission.
