AUBURN HILLS, MI – Audi has introduced its S-Tronic Dual-Clutch, capable of routing 550Nm (405 ft/lbs) of torque to all 4 wheels without breaking. It can also handle engine speeds of up to 9,000 RPMs, according to inventorspot.com.

In a normal automatic transmission, one clutch is used to change between gears. The control unit calculates your speed, RPMs, and throttle placement and decided the proper shift point. A single clutch is engaged for the next gear and then you off. The S-Tronic uses two clutch mechanisms to decrease shift times and increase economy and performance. As one gear is engaged from the first clutch, the next gear is already being aligned and essentially “waiting” for your right foot to give it the “OK.”

The S-Tronic also has two different operating modes. In normal D-Mode (Driving Mode), gear changes are completely reliant on the computer. When in S-Mode (Sport Mode), the computer will shift the timing to allow for optimal shifts, and the optional paddle shifters are ordered, you can decide when the change will take place.