Every vehicle depends on a transmission to deliver power from the engine to the wheels. These remarkable mechanisms are nearly as old as the internal combustion engine itself and still improving each year. Automakers continue to innovate, developing new transmission designs that make vehicles more responsive, fuel-efficient, and fun to drive.

Original Transmissions

In 1894, two French inventors, Emile Levassor and Louis-Rene Panhard, developed the first manual transmission. Their original design, a three speed with a chain drive, still forms the basis of all manuals to this day. Louis Renault was the first automaker to put their transmission design into production in 1898, replacing the chain mechanism with a drive shaft.

Automatic Transmissions

All transmissions were manuals until 1938, when General Motors first introduced the Hydra-Matic, a revolutionary five-speed clutchless gearbox. This innovation, fueled by the 1948 Dynaflow Buick^® transmission, led the postwar boom in car ownership and America's love affair with the automobile. Most new transmission designs are still based on the principles of these early mechanisms.

New Transmissions

Today's automakers are always working to make their transmissions more reliable and efficient, which reduces fuel consumption and increases performance. Many are focused on adding gears, with eight- and nine-speed models available on some luxury vehicles. Some are also experimenting with entirely new designs, intended to maximize fuel economy and provide the smoothest ride possible. All of these innovations are focused on automatic transmissions, which means manuals may become increasingly rare as technology advances.

Whether you need a new transmission installed or just routine maintenance, drivers in Lincoln, NE, can rely on the friendly professionals at Transmission Services for fair prices and solutions that will last. Visit their website now for a comprehensive list of services, call (402) 475-3637 to make an appointment, and follow their Facebook page for regular updates from the area's leading transmission shop.