Abstract: A lockup torque converter of an automatic transmission for an automotive vehicle consists of an impeller connected to an engine, a turbine connected to the automatic transmission, and a lockup clutch disposed between first and second pressure chambers formed in a housing of said lockup torque converter for locking and releasing the lockup torque converter. A control unit supplies a hydraulic pressure into the first pressure chamber and withdraw a hydraulic pressure chamber from the second pressure chamber or reversely so as to actuate the lockup clutch to lock or unlock the lockup torque converter, respectively. A pressure regulating unit develops a pressure difference between the first and second pressure chambers when the shifting of the automatic transmission is detected, thereby causing the lockup clutch to allow the lockup torque converter to slip in accordance with certain conditions.