Abstract: An electronic control system for an automatic transmission having an alternate forward start gear, a lower forward start gear and a lower forward start gear lock our feature, in which the electronic control system can sense from various conditions when more power to the drive train is needed and cause the automatic transmission to automatically downshift to the lower forward start gear.

Abstract: An electronic control system for an automatic transmission having an alternate forward start gear, a lower forward start gear and a lower forward start gear lock our feature, in which the electronic control system can sense from various conditions when more power to the drive train is needed and cause the automatic transmission to automatically downshift to the lower forward start gear.

Abstract: A shift control method for an automated manual transmission is provided. The method includes the step of modulating the force applied to a shift collar, via a shift rod and/or shift fork for example, during the engagement of the shift collar and a selected gear. The method modulates the initial engagement force applied to the shift collar when the rotational speed differential between the collar and gear is being adjusted, before increasing the force again following modulation. This modulation of the force decelerates the shift collar during the rotational speed adjustment and does not accelerate the shift collar to complete the engagement until after the modulation. In this way, a less abrupt engagement of the gear may be achieved. The control method may improve the driving characteristics of the vehicle employing the transmission and may also improve the power transmission efficiency.