Kia develops world's first ASC transmission tech

Hyundai Motor Group, Kia Motors parent company, has developed the world's first Active Shift Control (ASC) transmission technology.

The innovation optimizes transmission efficiency by monitoring gear shifts 500 times per second, precisely adjusting the transmission rotation speed to for faster shift times. The new technology will benefit upcoming Kia hybrids.

ASC applies new control logic software to the Hybrid Control Unit (HCU), which then controls the electric motor to align the rotational speeds of the engine and transmission to reduce gear shift time by 30%. The technology also delivers smoother gear changes despite quicker shift times.

'The development of world's first ASC technology is a remarkable innovation which incorporates precise motor control to automatic transmission,' said KyoungJoon Chang, vice president and head of powertrain control system group of Hyundai Motor Group, 'It will not only save fuel but also provide a more fun driving experience for our customers.'