ZF announced that it is launching a new 8-speed automatic transmission, ZF PowerLine, for medium-duty vehicles. The transmission will be released in early 2021 in North America.
“ZF’s PowerLine proves equal, but in most cases, higher efficiency than other transmissions with 9 and 10 speeds. With fewer moving parts and less weight than the competition, ZF PowerLine ensures an extended life and reduced maintenance for best-in-class TCO. PowerLine will set the benchmark standard for torque converter automatic transmissions in the North American commercial vehicle market,” said Christian Feldhaus, head of truck and van driveline technology North America for ZF.
According to ZF, features and benefits of PowerLine include:
- Barely perceivable shifts throughout these optimally spread gears enables up to 30% faster acceleration compared to conventional 6-speed transmissions.
- The transmission features a high torque engine-driven PTO interface on both sides for upfitting
- Additional features include Neutral at Stop, Parklock at 50,000 lbs, Auto Park, Adaptive Starting Gear, Quick Lock up and others.
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ZF noted that this product provides a stepping stone to the zero-emissions future.
“As we look to the future, we must be able to offer customers zero emissions driving solutions, and PowerLine has an eye toward emissions-free trucks, as it will be hybrid-ready upon production, with a future version compatible with electric drive,” said Feldhaus.
