Suzuki Expands Automated Manual Gearbox in India

Suzuki Motor Corp. is adding its automated manual transmission to a second model in India, The Nikkei reports.

The gearbox uses an actuator to operate the clutch and shift the gears of an otherwise standard manual transmission. The system isn't as smooth as a true automatic, but it costs about 10,000 yen ($83) less to make, according to the newspaper.

Almost all passenger vehicles in India are equipped with manual gearboxes. But Suzuki believes its inexpensive automated system will prove popular, especially among women drivers. The company tested the Indian market last year by offering the technology in the small Celerio five-door hatch.