Detroit 2011: 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Confirmed by ZF
Transmissions seem to be adding gears faster than razors are adding blades, with ZF announcing today at the Detroit Auto Show a new 9-speed automatic unit.
Described as a “major step for front-wheel drive cars in terms of fuel consumption” by ZF executive vice president Michael Paul, the new unit will be offered in future Chrysler vehicles.
Little in the way of details were provided, but ZF says it should will provide as much as a 10-mpg improvement in fuel economy over current models (likely those running a 6-speed unit). ZF already makes an 8-speed automatic transmission and this new 9-speed unit is touted to be roughly the same size and weight.
Production of the new transmission will begin in 2012 at the company’s Greenville, S.C. facility, so expect it to be included in new Chrysler brand products starting in 2013.
[Source: FreeP]
With AutoGuide from its launch, Colum previously acted as Editor-in-Chief of Modified Luxury & Exotics magazine where he became a certifiable car snob driving supercars like the Koenigsegg CCX and racing down the autobahn in anything over 500 hp. He has won numerous automotive journalism awards including the Best Video Journalism Award in 2014 and 2015 from the Automotive Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC). Colum founded Geared Content Studios, VerticalScope's in-house branded content division and works to find ways to integrate brands organically into content.
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I'm guessing 10 mpg improvement is for cars currently running 4-speed units.. Plus - 9 speeds?? Are they planning to offer a shifter-mode? Can you skip gears???