For the 2012 model year, Chrysler LLC put their first eight speed automatic transmission into mass production. While the 300 and Charger V6’s slushbox may have been built-in conjunction with German ZF, the tranny is a Mopar exclusive. With its help, the Pentastar powered full size sedans can achieve more than 30 mpg and have raised the automaker’s CAFE standards. In the near future, a similar change-up may spread throughout the rest of Chrysler LLC’s lineup as the company could be placing a lot of eggs in the multi-speed transmission basket.
According to an Automotive News article, the eight speed will soon be spreading to other models. Next in line for the mileage boosting treatment will more than likely be the 2013 Ram 1500 which will be the first pairing of the transmission and V8 engine. With three extra gears, the Hemi workhorse should see an increase in fuel mileage by 10 percent. Since 2007, the automaker has put approximately $1.7 billion into its transmission development and more than likely, that’s just the tipping point. Instead of pumping dollars into hybrid and or EV technology, Chrysler LLC seems to be putting its investments into conventional drivetrains. By advancing previously proven methods, time and money should be saved. In 2013, the industry will see its first nine speed gearbox and it will come courtesy of Detroit.
Source: AutomotiveNews.com
