Electronic Clutch activation

[manifold]

I have been looking at gear selection mechanisms.

Heres an idea taken from the smartcar.

I reckon it wouldnt be that difficult to apply this idea with a 3 way switch and some simple electronics linked to the RPM sensor of a ECU and linked to the clutch arm on the A series, enabling a tiptronic style gearchange.

Food for thoughts (ignore the markings, they are someone elses).

http://www.smartmaniacs.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=45563

linked to this:
http://www.jackknight.co.uk/press_release/0808_JKD%20-%20Sequential%20Gear%20shift%20Press%20release.pdf

[Hans Efde]

Isn't that an annoyingly slow clutch activation? There has been a lot of criticism on the Smart shifting mechanism.

[manifold]

Hi Hans. I had a smartcar convertible. It seemed fine to me. The steering wheel paddle shift gearbox was great and I had no problem with it. What I didnt like was the fact that the three pot engine was an oil burner.

What I am bringing to the forum is just some alternative ideas to ponder over. I have noticed in the past that one or two Midas owners have mentioned they like their cars to be more of a gt or tourer rather than an outright racer like your or mine. This could also be an alternative to the A series auto box which is not re-known for its reliability.

Kind regards,

David