What is ZSG?

I just saw this in the 335 info thread, but since it was getting off-topic (and lengthy) I figured I would start a new thread...

Originally Posted by tine

SMG is to stay in M cars only. But in some regular models a ZSG (central synchronized gearbox) will be offered in a near future. ZSG is still in development, and is scheduled to debut in E92 3-series Coupe. I have no info if that will happen right at E92 launch or later. Until the ZSG introduction BMW will offer Sport Automatic Steptronic Gearbox (SASG) with shift paddles in some models (debut in facelifted Z4 2.5si & 3.0si).

Does anyone have any additional details on how exactly ZSG works? Is it like SMG where its an "automatic" manual-transmission, or more of like steptronic where its am "manual" automatic-transition? If SMG, is staying on the M cars, I am curious how ZSG fits into the picture. Does it have a clutch like standard manuals? I really wanted to get SMG on my 335 convertible, but that does not appear to be possible.

-Brett

It's the BMW version of DSG that comes on the Audi/VW models.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Direct-Shift_Gearbox

ZSG stands for Zentral-Schalt-Getriebe, roughly translated Central-Shift-Gearbox.

Can I comment then Al that Z always mean Zentral then, for others like in ZHP, ZPP etc

Originally Posted by ase2dais

Can I comment then Al that Z always mean Zentral then, for others like in ZHP, ZPP etc

I doubt that the Z in ZHP or ZPP stands for Zentral. I think they have been assigned by BMWNA only for the US spec models.