Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) is a dual-clutch automatic gearbox used on Porsche cars. It features manual control and combines the advantages of automatic and manual transmissions. It is a perfect solution for sports cars, as it provides outstanding dynamics, instant gear shifting (up to 100 ms), is highly efficient, and helps to save fuel. Shifting is performed with almost no interruption in power. At the same time, the automatic mode allows comfortable everyday driving.
PDK was released in 1985 as an option for the racing car Porsche 962. Since 2008, its adapted version has been installed on road models of the brand. The 911 Carrera was the first production car equipped with a PDK gearbox.
How the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) works
PDK consists of two modules that are coupled with the engine by means of two parallel clutches. One clutch engages odd gears, the other engages even ones. The required gear is engaged by means of forks driven by electrohydraulics. Modern models are equipped with 8-speed PDK transmissions: the first 6 are for sports driving, while the other 2 are for fuel economy and comfort.
The transmission software is programmed for several operating modes as an automatic: Normal, Individual, Sport, Sport Plus, and in some cases Race Track. Manual control is performed by sliding the gear lever mounted on the central console back and forth to increase and decrease the gear ratio. This can also be performed using the buttons mounted on the steering wheel.
Popular Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) versions
Gearbox code | Manufacturer | Quantity of speeds | Max engine capacity, L | Engine max torque, N·m | Car layout | Production start | Model applications |
8DT | ZF | 8 | 6.7 | 1000 | FWD, RWD, AWD | 2016 | Porsche Panamera |
7DT-75 | ZF | 7 | 4.8 | 750 | RWD, AWD | 2009 | Porsche Macan; Porsche Panamera |
7DT-70 | ZF | 7 | 3.8 | 700 | RWD, AWD | 2010 | Porsche 911 Turbo S; Porsche 911 Turbo |
7DT-45 | ZF | 7 | 4.0 | 450 | RWD, AWD | 2009 | Porsche 718 Boxster; Porsche 911 Carrera; Porsche Cayman; Porsche 911 Carrera S; Porsche 718 Cayman; Porsche Boxster |
Common malfunctions of Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK)
Malfunctions | Transmissions |
Software malfunctions can occur. | 7DT-75; 7DT-70; 7DT-45 |
Clutch setting failure. | 7DT-75; 7DT-70; 7DT-45 |
Jerky gear shifting. | 7DT-70; 7DT-45; 7DT-75 |
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