What is the use of an 8-speed automatic transmission?

Question

Unless you live out in the Mid-west with LOTS of open road, I can't see the point. I can tell you in Miami you will likely NEVER get past 6th much less 8th.

I supposed you could save *some* gas on long trips but I think the automakers are looking for more gimmicks. (don't get me started on auto-parallel parking!)

Answer 1

FROM 6 TO 8 SPEED I LOVE .
6 SPEED IN MIAMI AND YOU CAN'T GET UP TO ANY HIGHER SPEED?

GAS MILEAGE.

Answer 2

So that the gears can be closer and there for you would get better mileage. The engine wouldnt have to strain as hard to accelerate or to maintain a speed. The 8 gears are much closer than the current 5 and 6 speed transmissions, there for decreasing the strain on the engine and increasing mileage.
Think about when all they had were 2 and 3 speed transmissions, then they came out with 4 and 5 speed transmissions, then later the six speeds. Same thing.

Answer 3

eight speed transmissions aren't very common, however trucks may have sixteen or more gears. there are also some that are six and twelve. depending on the load, trucks may use all lower gears, or just one or two before getting into the high range. the lower gears are hi rev / hi torque and are used in mountainous areas for added safety downhill, or when getting an extremely heavy load moving, and some uphill travel from slower speeds.

Answer 4

You ever ride a one speed bike? Then compare it to a 12 speed, etc. Without knowing how Lexus is using this, I'd say it's to allows a driver to get the same MPG at 80 MPH (or 70) that they get at 55 MPH.

Answer 5

They just want to have the most gears. Audi, bugatti,benz,bmw and much more only have 6 or 7. 8 Is to many

Answer 6

other than on a semi-truck, none.