Difference Between IMT & AMT: Know All About It

Technology has made our lives easier and more comfortable, and it has made progress in various fields such as textiles, education, business, and cars. Among these, technology has had the greatest impact on the automobile industry. Intelligent manual transmission (IMT) cars have made driving more enjoyable. 

Although there are many automatic transmission cars available in India, it can be hard to decide which one to choose. The IMT car has recently been launched in India, and it's a good option to compare with the popular automatic gearbox, AMT.

This blog serves as a detailed guide on what is AMT in cars and various IMT cars in India. Let’s dive in to learn more about them!

What is IMT In Cars?: Know About IMT Transmission Working

There are different types of car transmission systems. IMT full form in a car stands for Intelligent Manual Transmission, which is a type of transmission that works without using a clutch pedal. Instead, you use the gear shift lever to change gears like a regular manual gearbox. The IMT gearbox has some components like a hydraulic clutch & an intention sensor actuator, and an electronic transmission control unit that work together to shift gears. 

In cars with IMT transmission in India, the gear lever has an "intention sensor" that signals the TCU when to change gears. A signal is then sent by the TCU to the hydraulic clutch actuator to engage or disengage the clutch plate. As a result, you are able to drive more safely.

What is AMT In Car?

AMT full form for Automated Manual Transmission, is a type of transmission system that's used in some cars. It's a combination of a manual transmission and an automatic transmission.

With a traditional manual transmission, the driver has to manually shift gears by pressing down on the clutch and moving a gear shift lever. But with an AMT system, the car's electronic control unit takes care of the gear shifting for you. It uses the same gear and clutch setup used in every manual transmission.

Advantages & Disadvantages of AMT

The various advantages and disadvantages of having an AMT & IMT Cars in India are listed below:

Advantages

Convenience: With AMT, the car's electronic control unit takes care of the gear shifting for you, making driving easier and more convenient compared to traditional manual transmissions.

Cost-effective: AMT is often less expensive than traditional automatic transmissions, which can save car buyers money.

Improved fuel efficiency: AMT can improve fuel efficiency compared to traditional automatic transmissions, making it a more environmentally friendly option.

Better performance: AMT can provide faster and smoother gear changes compared to traditional manual transmissions, resulting in better overall performance.

Easy to use: AMT is easy to use, even for drivers who are not familiar with manual transmissions, which can make it a popular choice for newer drivers.

Also Read: Tips & tricks of getting the best mileage in the car 

Disadvantages

Limited smoothness: AMT can sometimes have jerky gear changes, which can result in a less smooth driving experience compared to traditional automatic transmissions.

Higher cost than manual transmissions: While AMT is often less expensive than traditional automatic transmissions, it can still be more expensive than traditional manual transmissions, which can be a drawback for car buyers on a budget.

Limited availability: AMT is a newer technology and may not be available in all car models or regions, which can limit its availability for car buyers.

Maintenance and repair: AMT systems are more complex than traditional manual transmissions, which can make repairs and maintenance more difficult and expensive.

Advantages & Disadvantages of IMT

Advantages of IMT

IMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) offer several advantages over traditional manual transmissions. Here are a few key benefits:

Improved fuel efficiency: IMT can improve fuel efficiency compared to traditional manual transmissions by optimizing gear shifting for better fuel economy.

Lower cost: IMT is often less expensive than traditional automatic transmissions, which can save car buyers money.

Greater control over gear shifting: With IMT, the driver still has control over gear shifting, which can provide a more engaging driving experience compared to traditional automatic transmissions.

Reduced driver fatigue: IMT can reduce driver fatigue by assisting the driver with gear shifting, especially in heavy traffic or on long drives.

Increased safety: IMT can increase safety by providing intelligent shift control, which can help prevent accidents caused by incorrect gear shifting.

Disadvantages of IMT

Higher cost than traditional manual transmissions: While IMT is often less expensive than traditional automatic transmissions, it can still be more expensive than traditional manual transmissions, which can be a drawback for car buyers on a budget.

Complexity: IMT systems are more complex than traditional manual transmissions, which can make repairs and maintenance more difficult and expensive.

Learning curve: While IMT is designed to make shifting easier and more intuitive, it still requires some getting used to, which can be a challenge for drivers who are used to traditional manual or automatic transmissions.

Limited availability: IMT is a newer technology and may not be available in all car models or regions, which can limit its availability for car buyers.

Which Is Best To Choose: IMT or AMT?

IMT and AMT are two different types of car transmissions. AMT is known for providing automatic operation at an affordable price, which has made it very popular. However, Hyundai's new IMT technology has also been launched, and it may offer some advantages over AMT.

The question is, which one is better? To answer this, we need to understand the differences between IMT and AMT. The choice depends on various factors, which are explained below:

Servicing replacement

Since IMT cars are new to India, they may require more maintenance. IMT is less advanced than AMT because it has traditional gear shifting. Therefore, AMT cars may need more maintenance to ensure they work well over their lifespan.

Comparison Of Some Important Features Of IMT Vs AMT Cars

1. Driving Experience 

The lack of a clutch pedal, which enables the driver to change speeds without pressing the clutch with their left foot, is one resemblance between the iMT and AMT systems when you apply your knowledge of manual transmissions to the comparison. 

The AMT's lack of a traditional H gearbox accounts for the variation in driving sensation. With an automated gearbox (AMT), all you have to do is turn on the vehicle and transfer the gears from neutral to drive. The automobile will then automatically shift into the appropriate gear based on your speed and the RPM at which it is travelling. All you have to do to reverse the car is move the gear stick into reverse. You don't have to stress about engaging the clutch or changing ratios based on the driving conditions.

Therefore, by allowing drivers to choose whether to upshift or downshift, iMTs provide them more control over how their automobiles shift gears. Conversely, AMTs provide a sense of security by automatically shifting gears at predetermined speeds set by the automobile manufacturer while taking lifetime and mileage into consideration.

Without a doubt, AMTs make driving easier, especially in heavy traffic. However, because they shift gears automatically, there is a small lag when compared to an iMT, which engages power as soon as the driver initiates a gear shift (much like a manual transmission).

2. Fuel Efficiency

A manual gearbox has been more fuel-efficient than an automatic. Despite being different from other automatic transmissions (AMTs), an AMT's automated gear-shifting operation might reduce fuel economy.

However, just like with an MT, the driver has complete control over achieving high-efficiency figures when operating an iMT. Similar to how they do with MTs, clever hypermiling strategies can improve fuel efficiency on an iMT.

3. Cost 

Since an iMT and an AMT have fewer components than an AMT, which is a much older technology that has been improved over time, the basic cost of production for both is fairly similar. AMT transmissions require slightly more maintenance than iMT transmissions, however, iMTs will ultimately cost less to maintain than high-end AMT transmissions due to their greater number of automated parts.

4. Performance

The majority of automatic transmissions in the sub-15 lakh range, such as the Honda CVT, are known for being sluggish. Similarly, you wouldn't describe the AMT's sudden, head-tossing, and occasionally sluggish features as performance-oriented.

This is where the advantages of both worlds are combined with the iMT. In order to generate a fierce acceleration from your vehicle, you must actively participate. You can accomplish that with an iMT gearbox without getting tired of occasionally stepping on the clutch. Even though the iMT isn't quite as exciting as a real manual, the convenience it offers more than makes up for it.

Best AMT Cars in India

Here is a list of the top 7 AMT cars in India:

1. Tata Tiago 

2. Tata Nexon

3. Ertiga

4. Renault Kwid 

5. Suzuki Celerio

6. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios

7. Hyundai Creta

Best IMT Cars in India

Here are the top 5 IMT cars in India in 2023:

1. Hyundai Venue 

2. Kia Sonet 

3. Hyundai i20 N-Line

4. Kia Seltos

5. Kia Carens 

Conclusion: IMT Vs AMT

Both IMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) and AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) offer unique advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between them depends on individual preferences and needs. AMT is more focused on convenience and cost-effectiveness, while IMT is geared toward improving fuel efficiency and providing better performance. 

Both technologies represent significant advancements in transmission systems, and car buyers should carefully consider their options before making a decision between IMT vs AMT or AMT vs IMT. Ultimately, the right choice will depend on individual priorities, driving habits, and budget. If you are still confused about AMT & IMT cars, ABE experts are here to help you. Depending on your preferences, they can guide you in choosing the right gearbox and the best place to buy used luxury cars.

FAQ’s

1. What are the advantages of IMT over AMT?

IMT offers better fuel efficiency and improved performance compared to AMT. It also provides a smoother and more responsive driving experience and can be more cost-effective in the long run.

2. What are the advantages of AMT over IMT?

AMT is more convenient and easier to use than IMT, as the electronic control unit takes care of the gear-shifting process. It can also be less expensive upfront than IMT.

3. Which one is more widely available, IMT or AMT?

Currently, AMT is more widely available in the market compared to IMT, as it has been around for longer and is used by more car manufacturers.

4. Are there any maintenance differences between IMT and AMT?

Both IMT and AMT may require regular maintenance and repairs, but the complexity of the electronic control systems in AMT may make repairs and maintenance more expensive.

5. Which one is better for beginners, IMT or AMT?

AMT is generally easier for beginners to use, as it eliminates the need for manual clutch control. However, some drivers may prefer the more traditional feel of a manual transmission and opt for IMT instead.

6. Does IMT transmission decrease mileage in cars?

No, it provides better mileage than manual cars.