[Nick S]

Originally Posted by Tran

8. Shifts Faster Than Porsche's PDK, Says Ford

With a low first-gear ratio of 4.696, the torque converter basically aids in a smooth launch, then quickly locks up and stays that way. Shifting is controlled by the six clutches, which engage and disengage two at a time to swap cogs swiftly and smoothly. These shifts do not require the torque converter to unlock, which would decrease efficiency. These clutches are controlled by integrated solenoid valves, which respond more quickly than the usual two-piece designs. The system has also been designed to minimize the length of the hydraulic passages and optimize the clutch designs for quick fill times—all in the interest of faster and more responsive clutch operation. Although we're skeptical, and these kinds of claims are heavily dependent on exactly what constitutes the start and end of a shift, Ford claims transmission shifts 26 to 36 percent more quickly than Porsche's PDK, at least through fourth gear. The transmission can also perform large, multi-gear downshifts—directly from tenth to fifth, or ninth to fourth—smoothly and rapidly. There's also a one-way clutch, which smoothly and cleanly disengages the transmission when rolling to a stop, avoiding a potentially jarring 3-1 downshift.

I think this is an important detail to note. One reason why automatics usually took longer to shift is because the TCM would need to unlock the torque converter first, then shift gears, then lock it up again if conditions were met. Being able to keep the torque converter locked essentially makes it a direct drive connection as if there were no torque converter involved. Based on this I can believe that it would be possible for the new 10 speed transmissions to shift faster than a PDK.