While it is only recent that many car buyers have been shifting preference to the convenience of an automatic, thanks to cost effective technology like AMT, which is now available at a lower price point. The upcoming Tata Kite will try to break it down further and come equipped with something called an e-Clutch. Although it may sound like, it has nothing to do with the web world. Instead, the system takes over the clutch operation during stop-go traffic, leaving the driver to only deal with gearshifts.
Developed by Bosch in 2013, the eClutch automates the clutch only, not the transmission. The clutch pedal transmits an electric signal to an actuator, which decouples the clutch and allows drivers using manual transmission to use first gear without using the clutch. One simply needs to use the brake and gas pedal, just like in an automatic transmission. In addition, the eClutch makes the coasting function possible, which saves fuel. Independently of the driver, the clutch decouples the engine from the transmission if the driver is no longer accelerating. The engine then stops. The result is a real fuel saving of 10 percent on average.
Source: Team-bhp