Lightning shift:
On the new 911 GT3, gear changes for a manually initiated upshift are accomplished by way of a “lightning shift” with very short response and shifting times. This function is initiated using a one-touch switch on the selector lever (M gate) or using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. As a result, gear changes on the new 911 GT3 are approximately 60% faster than on the 911 Carrera models. This is achieved thanks to maximum performance in filling the clutch-specific hydraulic system and by activating the overlap function between the closing and opening clutches at precisely the right time. The implementation of a lightning shift is the result of years of experience with the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) in various Porsche models. During this time Porsche has been able to extensively analyze and precisely evaluate the intervention and change behavior of the clutch system in many situations and under various conditions. This has resulted in an enhanced control strategy for the complex clutch system. By controlling the clutch change in a precise and highly dynamic way, it is possible to change gears much faster. In addition, lightning shifts are implemented with a torque enhancement to improve driving performance. The dynamic torque enhancement uses the momentum and rotational energy that is present in the entire drive system during a gear change. In this process, the rotational energy (mass moment of inertia), which is stored primarily in the crankshaft, clutch module and gear wheel sets, is decelerated strongly while changing gear. This causes a brief additional torque boost in the drive system and allows a further improvement in the acceleration potential. The actual gear change occurs with high engine speed dynamics and a highly dynamic adaptation of the engine speed to the newly selected gear. The short synchronization times are in an order of magnitude that was previously reserved for motor sports.