Pikes Peak Audi Quattro - What is this button?

[Motominded]

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-7781677116029327015&q=pike+peak

Here's a video i found about the 1987 Pikes Peak Hill Climb.

When Walter Rohrl is speaking at 50 secs into the vid...

1. he presses a button on the shifter...
2. as he does that the video shows him hitting the gas and the clutch depressing on its own....
3. is that from the button being pressed?

 

[wrcsti]

Probably a very primitive auto clutch tranny if you ask me. Very cool video!

 

[Motominded]

cause i was thinking thismight be the first use of a sequential like trans but instead of paddle shifter working the clutch, it is that button.

 

[KAMKA-Z]

I believe that's an electric clutch. That leaves the left foot available for easier "left foot braking".

 

[JAGUAR1977]

Is it a version of Porsche's PDK gearbox, as used on some 956/962s?

Rohrl used a similar system on the '85 RAC Rally.

 

[Motominded]

Is it a version of Porsche's PDK gearbox, as used on some 956/962s?

Rohrl used a similar system on the '85 RAC Rally.

where can i find more info please.