Rumour: Maruti Celerio to get Automated Manual Transmission

Economic Times reports that leading Indian manufacturer Maruti Suzuki, is planning to introduce a clutch-less manual transmission in its upcoming hatchback, the Celerio. Called Automated Manual Transmission (AMT), this technology allows drivers to shift gears like a manual transmission, but, without engaging a clutch.

The Celerio, which is the replacement for the Estilo and A-Star, will be debuted at the Auto Expo in February 2014. The car is likely to be powered by the 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder, K10 engine that is being used in some cars in Maruti’s current line-up. The absense of a clutch will mean that the effort required to drive the car in stop-go traffic will be considerably reduced, which will boost the car's appeal.

The AMT is not as expensive as a conventional automatic transmission, which will mean the price of the car will cost only a little more than its manual sibling. Additionally, a car fitted with AMT is supposed to be just as fuel-efficient as one with a manual transmission.

The AMT is developed and patented by Italian component manufacturer, Magnetti Marelli S.p.A., which has set up a facility, dedicated to the technology at Manesar, Haryana.