Abstract: A control system of an automatic clutch for a motor vehicle has a continuously variable transmission interposed between the clutch and driving wheels, a select position sensor provided on the transmission for detecting a select position of a large reduction range and for producing a select position signal, an accelerator switch for detecting an accelerator position and for generating an accelerator signal, and a vehicle speed sensor for generating a vehicle speed signal. Tire grip condition is determined in accordance with the vehicle speed signal that wheels grip a road surface without slipping. Engine braking is detected by the accelerator signal and the select position signal. The engagement of the clutch is controlled in accordance with the grip condition and the engine braking so as to maintain an optimum control of the clutch.

Abstract: When a drive range of a transmission is selected from a neutral range at a high engine racing speed, a racing start signal is produced. In response to the racing start signal, the electromagnetic clutch is engaged at a higher engaging rate than an ordinary engaging speed.