A variable modular kit for future technologies
1 + X for the future
The 8-speed automatic transmission has been developed on the basis of a principle that is as simple as it is ingenious: that of a variable modular kit. By doing this now, we have created the requirements to be able to use existing and future technologies, without any modifications to the installation space in the vehicle.
Extendable technologies
In addition to fuel savings and performance improvements, a further objective of the ZF development engineers was versatility. In a market environment likely to continue to be characterized by model pluralism, the new transmission series needs to be able to meet a wide range of different requirements. Right from the conception of the 8HP, attention was paid to ensuring its suitability as a modular kit for other starting and all-wheel concepts, without any changes to the basic transmission concept. In the clutch bell housing, the torque converter can be replaced by new starting elements (such as a hydrodynamic cooled clutch) or omitted completely with the assistance of an integrated starting clutch. On the power take-off end, the new product is compatible with all ZF all-wheel drive concepts and future developments of these.
Compatible with hybrid drive systems
The new 8-speed automatic transmission is also ideally designed for hybridizing the driveline: ZF will be able to offer both a mild hybrid with crankshaft starter generator and a full hybrid as a parallel hybrid on the basis of the new 8-speed automatic transmission. This will allow all familiar hybrid functions to be implemented in conjunction with the new 8HP. Up to 25% fuel savings can be expected from the full hybrid version in urban-cycle traffic.
Further information
Contact
Holger Kirsch
Trade Press Passenger Cars
Tel. +49 7541 77-2488
Fax. +49 7541 77-90 2488
E-mail:
holger.kirsch@zf.com
