5. Automated manual gearboxes

The first attempts to automate a manual gearbox were limited to automating the clutch. Examples include the BMW Alpina B12 (1993) and its Shiftronic system (ordered by over 60% of buyers of this vehicle), or the Renault Twingo and its Easy system. As with an automatic gearbox, there are just two pedals at the driver's feet: the gas pedal and the brake, with the clutch operated by an electromechanical or hydraulic system.

Logically enough, after the clutch, the next step was to automate gear selection and shifting. Ferrari was the first to offer this type of system on its F355 (called F1 in reference to the technology used in Formula 1, from which it was derived). Shortly afterwards, BMW launched the M3 equipped with its SMG automated gearbox.

In the early 1990s, many automakers launched automated (or "robotized") gearboxes, not only for...