Which of the following statements is true about an automatic transmission apparatus?

The statement that gears shift automatically is true for an automatic transmission apparatus. In vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, the system is designed to change gears automatically based on the speed of the vehicle and the pressure applied to the accelerator. This eliminates the need for the driver to manually shift gears, allowing for a more streamlined and easier driving experience, especially in varying traffic conditions.

Automatic transmissions utilize a complex arrangement of sensors, hydraulic systems, and electronic controls to determine the optimal gear for the situation, enhancing both performance and fuel efficiency. This allows the driver to focus on other aspects of driving, rather than worrying about gear changes.

In contrast, the other statements inaccurately describe the characteristics of an automatic transmission. The first suggests that manual gear shifts are always required, which contradicts the very nature of automatic transmissions. The claim that there is no option for gear selection is misleading, as many automatic systems do offer a manual mode or "sport" setting for driver input when desired. Additionally, the idea that it only functions in forward gears ignores that most automatic transmissions also provide reverse and neutral gears, enabling a full range of motion required for driving.