Fuel-Efficient ZF Eight-Speed Automatic Coming To Chrysler Cars By 2013

By Viknesh Vijayenthiran

Viknesh Vijayenthiran

Editor BIO

Vik is an Editor at High Gear Media and contributor for a number of sites within the High Gear Media network. He was a co-founder of... More

LATEST ARTICLE
Jay Leno Drives The Focus Electric And Fusion Plug-In Hybrid
The online series Jay Leno’s Garage usually plays host to exotic supercars and brawny muscle... Read More

• #1LEADERBOARD RANK
• 7372ARTICLES CONTRIBUTED
• 82COMMENTS POSTED

911 views Jun 10, 2010

Follow Viknesh

Add to circle

ZF eight-speed automatic

Enlarge Photo

Chrysler will soon be offering a new eight-speed automatic transmission developed by Germany’s ZF and used by luxury marques like BMW and Audi. The new transmission is said to be both more fuel-efficient and cheaper to manufacture than ZF’s popular six-speed unit that’s currently used by numerous automakers. Furthermore, its performance is claimed to be comparable with more advanced dual clutch units despite its conventional torque converter design.

Chrysler will invest $300 million to convert its existing Kokomo transmission plant in Indiana in order to start manufacturing the new transmission in 2013.

The design of the particular ZF eight-speed transmission already in use by other automakers is said to improve fuel consumption by around 14 percent compared with a standard five-speed automatic. This is because of its longer gear ratios. ZF’s engineers have also improved the design to include compatibility with stop-start technology, allowing the close-geared system to shut the engine down when a vehicle comes to a stop and fire it back up and drive off at a moment’s notice.

Specific product information and timing for the new transmission will come at a later date, though Chrysler has announced that it will feature across the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram Truck product lineup. Look for its debut in high-end models like the next-generation Chrysler 300 and the new Jeep Grand Cherokee.

[Chrysler]