ZF ecomods a transmission: 8 spd auto, EOC-able, multiple input options, fewer parts

[MetroMPG]

Found this Car & Driver article interesting:



It's an interesting modular approach to making one transmission case that can be customized with multiple options, including input from (A) a "regular" torque converter, (B) an electric motor (for hybrid applications) or (C) a multiple clutch pack for increased efficiency & shifting speed (better acceleration).

ZF says the 8HP is six percent more *efficient than the outgoing sixer and nearly as efficient as a dual-clutch automated manual, which ZF also produces. However, the eight-speed is roughly 20 percent cheaper and retains the smooth, torque-converter starts to which U.S. buyers have become accustomed.

And interesting for those who like to practise engine-off coasting with automatic transmissions...

Furthermore, the 8HP has a system to maintain hydraulic pressure even when the engine isn’t running and is therefore the first automatic that’s compatible with stop-start operation—good for 11 percent better fuel efficiency, says ZF.

More info at: ZF?s 8-Speed Automatic Transmission - Tech Dept. - Auto Reviews - Car and Driver

[Big Dave]

With the clutch pack or electric motor: A fine idea.

With the torque converter: Overpriced trash.

Torque converters are the tool of OPEC.

[Mustang Dave]

Since the torque converter locks at 1200 RPM, it may not be that bad. :shrug:

[mcrews]

Impressive.
So the suppliers are ready with parts that are FE for the bigger vehicles......

[mwebb]

have you seen the under side of relatively newer european car ?
they are ready , they are involved , they are living it now.

Originally Posted by mcrews

Impressive.
So the suppliers are ready with parts that are FE for the bigger vehicles......

[MetroMPG]

Originally Posted by Mustang Dave

Since the torque converter locks at 1200 RPM, it may not be that bad. :shrug:

I noticed that as well. Still not ideal, but if the US market generally demands slushy transitions in their beloved automatic transmissions, at least companies are trying to accomodate that with increasing efficiency.