In simpler terms, the gear shift helps your car go faster, slow down, and climb hills without straining the engine. It alters the vehicle’s gear ratio, changing its speed and torque. But have you ever wondered how they move, speed up, slow down, or climb steep hills? The secret lies in a component called the transmission or gearbox, and a process called ‘gear shifting.’ This process is crucial to the efficient running and control of any vehicle, from the humble bicycle to the most powerful supercar.Ī gear shift is a component in vehicles that allows the driver to control the transmission system. Cars are a big part of our everyday life, taking us from point A to point B.