BeamNG.drive gets most of its attention for crash physics, but its drivetrain simulation is just as detailed. Community mod creator Angelov.1080 recently released version 0.9 of the Angelov’s Customizable Powertrains (ACP) mod, adding a full transmission builder to go along with its custom engines.
Released on October 27, the free update lets you build manual, automatic, dual-clutch (DCT), and sequential gearboxes with anywhere from one to twelve forward gears and adjustable gear ratios.
Each transmission type models its own shift speeds, clutch behavior, and career-mode part costs across supported BeamNG cars.
Adding extra gears increases weight and internal friction in the gearbox, so a 10-speed transmission is not automatically faster than a well-spaced 5-speed or 6-speed sequential.
Why More Gears Are Not Always Faster
Putting a close-ratio sequential gearbox with a lot of gears into a rally car can help keep a peaky engine in its powerband coming out of tight hairpins. At the same time, a lighter four-speed or five-speed manual loses less power through the drivetrain and lets you use the engine's midrange torque instead of shifting constantly.
Tuning Gear Ratios for Rally and Hillclimb
Being able to pick your own gear spacing makes a noticeable difference if you use an H-pattern or sequential shifter on your rig. Shortening 2nd and 3rd gear for tight hillclimb or gravel rally stages keeps the car in boost through slow corners, making v0.9 a great pickup on the BeamNG repository.
