Allison Transmission announced its first nine-speed model at the North American Commercial Vehicle Show. The fully automatic transmission for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles will be available globally and is targeted for release in 2020.
The Allison nine-speed transmission provides significant fuel savings as the highly-efficient gear train allows the torque converter to lock up early in first gear, according to the company. Additionally, the nine-speed includes an integral engine stop-start system that provides immediate transmission engagement and vehicle hold while the engine is restarted. Allison reported that the nine-speed model is aimed at distribution trucks, rental and lease trucks and school buses.
FuelSense, Allison’s software and electronic controls packages, in conjunction with the nine-speed will set improve efficiency and reduce emissions, according to Randy Kirk, senior vice president of product engineering and product teams with Allison Transmission.
The Allison nine-speed model leverages the durability of the Allison 2000 Series six-speed commercial transmissions, which have accumulated more than 100 billion miles globally. It’s been designed to utilize the same OEM interfaces as its six-speed predecessor to integrate into vehicles currently released with the Allison 2000 Series.
Allison transmissions also employ Continuous Power Technology to multiply engine torque and deliver more power to the wheels, the company stated.
