No clutch pedal, no gear shifting, but this AT is faster than any manual. Toyota set out to develop a technology that could overturn an established motorsport norm and bring new faces to racing.
Morizo: “DAT is a game-changer”
As the project’s initiator, Morizo also has high expectations for this technology. During the Toyota Times livestream of Rally Hokkaido, Round 7 of the All Japan Rally Championship held on September 9-10, he made the following comments:
DAT will be a game-changer. Auto transmissions are more than just slower versions of manuals that we put up with because they make it easier for many to drive, like some think.
I really want to make this (commercial release) happen, and for many people to drive these cars.
One thing I learned in Super Taikyu is the difference in shifting between myself and the pro drivers. When changing gears on a straight, I lose 0.2 seconds. With two changes, I fall nearly half a second behind.
With DAT, there’s no time lost when shifting, so the gap between myself and the pros was smaller than usual. I can just concentrate on braking and accelerating.
In fact, in the main race at Super Taikyu Motegi, Morizo’s fastest lap of 2:11.953 almost matched pro driver Masahiro Sasaki’s time of 2:11.939, providing a glowing endorsement of DAT’s capabilities.
Pro drivers sense fan excitement
As yet, there are no plans to commercialize the technology. Though many obstacles must still be overcome before that point, Ishiura says he already senses a positive response.
Very few people can skillfully maneuver a car around a racetrack using techniques such as heel-and-toe shifting. With DAT, however, anyone can take on a circuit without trouble.
With a manual transmission, hitting the wrong gear can even damage the engine, which makes many people too afraid to take the plunge.
When I posted on social media that I would be racing with DAT this time, many people shared their excitement in the comments.
From the number who asked, “Does this mean I could just drive on the track?” I realized that gear shifting was a reason why many people lack the courage to tackle a circuit.
Will DAT find its way into production vehicles and become the catalyst for sustainable motorsports? The development of this highly anticipated new technology continues, with many racing and rally fans eagerly looking on.