The next generation of epicyclic auto gearboxes have efficiencies and performance that will challenge the traditional benefits of a manual gearbox.
Six speeds are standard now and eight will become the common standard over the next few years, allowing the engine to stay in the right speed range in all conditions so that full tilt performance and gentle cruising economy are both optimised. The benefits also include getting rid of the manual clutch and providing the perfect pull away and very long service life and blistering drag style starts. The modern computer controlled gear selection coupled with electronic throttle means every shift is seamless, bringing smother power delivery and minimising the risk of loosing traction when hoofing it round the twisty bits, as well as improving transient emissions which has always been a bit of a sod, in engineering terms.
The computer control of the modern auto box has allowed the removal of a lot of fail-safe hardware like one way clutches and some hydraulic valves, making them smaller and lighter. Accuracy is remarkable and a small error in controller calibration during car development can lead to a gearbox destroying itself in less than ten shifts.
You may be surprised to hear that these new autos are great for an enthusiastic driver as F1 style paddle shift and a full manual mode will be standard on most performance cars and torque converter lock up systems mean the end of compulsory slush drive.
Still changing gear manually? Oh, how ‘last millennium’!