Unlike traditional automatic transmissions, which rely on a set of planetary gears and a torque converter to manage gear engagement, DCTs follow a different design paradigm. DCTs are essentially a blend of manual and automatic transmissions, housing two manual transmissions within the same unit. Instead of a torque converter, DCTs employ two automated clutches to connect the engine to the transmission. This setup enables faster shifts compared to traditional automatics. As one clutch engages, the other prepares the next gear, resulting in seamless, split-second gear changes. These rapid shifts optimize power transfer to the wheels, enhancing efficiency and performance.