Mastering the Art: A Guide on How to Drift in an Automatic Car
Drifting is a thrilling and skillful driving technique that allows you to navigate corners with style and precision. While many associate drifting with manual transmissions, it's entirely possible to achieve impressive drifts in an automatic car. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the steps and techniques to master the art of drifting in an automatic vehicle.
1. Choose the Right Car:
While drifting is possible in various types of cars, certain vehicles are more conducive to this driving style. Look for a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) car with enough power to break traction. Popular choices include sports cars or performance-oriented sedans.
2. Disable Traction Control:
Most automatic cars come equipped with traction control systems designed to prevent wheel spin. However, for effective drifting, you'll need to disable or reduce the impact of traction control. Consult your car's manual to understand how to turn off or adjust this feature.
3. Locate an Open and Safe Space:
Drifting should only be practiced in controlled environments, such as open parking lots or dedicated drifting tracks. Ensure that you have ample space, and the surface is free from obstacles. Safety should always be a top priority.
4. Understand Weight Transfer:
Successful drifting relies on understanding how weight shifts in a car during acceleration, deceleration, and turns. Practice controlling weight transfer by making deliberate movements with the steering wheel and pedals to induce and maintain a drift.
5. Practice the Donut Technique:
The donut technique is a fundamental drifting maneuver. Find an open space, reduce traction control, and practice turning the steering wheel while applying controlled bursts of acceleration. This helps you get a feel for the car's balance and how it responds to your inputs.
6. Master the Power Slide:
Power slides involve using the car's power to break traction, initiating a controlled slide. Practice this technique by accelerating into a turn, lifting off the throttle, and then gently applying the accelerator to maintain the slide. Experiment with different levels of throttle input to control the drift.
7. Experiment with Handbrake Turns:
In automatic cars, handbrake turns can be a valuable tool for initiating drifts. While turning, gently pull the handbrake to induce oversteer. This technique requires precise coordination between steering, throttle, and handbrake input.
8. Focus on Smooth Transitions:
Drifting is an art of smooth transitions. Avoid abrupt movements that can unsettle the car. Gradually ease into turns, balance the throttle, and maintain control throughout the drift. Practice refining your transitions for a more polished drifting experience.
9. Perfect the Clutch Kick Technique:
In automatic cars, you can simulate a clutch kick by quickly releasing and reapplying the throttle. This action transfers weight to the rear wheels, aiding in initiating and maintaining a drift. Experiment with the timing and intensity of the throttle input.
10. Continuous Practice and Improvement:
Becoming proficient at drifting in an automatic car takes practice and patience. Regularly revisit your chosen practice area to refine your skills. Analyze your drifts, identify areas for improvement, and gradually push your limits to become a more skilled drifter.
Conclusion:
Drifting in an automatic car is an exhilarating skill that combines precision, control, and a deep understanding of your vehicle. By following these steps and practicing in a safe environment, you can unlock the art of drifting and enjoy the unique thrill of controlled slides and power-induced maneuvers. Remember, responsible drifting is not only about the spectacle but also about mastering a high-skill driving technique. Happy drifting!