Expert: Matt Lyons - 7/18/2008

Question
I want to know the process of torque generated from engine goes through transmission and finally to wheels.The engine rpm drops when the gears are changed but the engine has a fixed maximum torque.So how is the speed of cars increased in the next gear?As the speed of the car depends on engine rpm and torque.

Answer
Torque generated by the engine is transferred through the driveline by a series of processors. These processors can be: a torque converter, a clutch, then on to the transmission which takes the incoming torque and multiplies it by the given ratio which transmits it through the driveshaft to the rear end where it is once again multiplied by the rear gear ratio. By manipulating the ratios in The Trans and rear end you can moderate the amount of torque you wish to use at the given speed. A super low first gear will load The drivetrain against the incoming torque which allows it to transfer a great amount. A higher ratio would do the opposite. Overdrives split the torque output enabling the vehicle to run at a lower rpm but with more speed.