German transmission specialist ZF launched a 9-speed automatic transmission at the Shanghai motor show.
The new transmission, a conventional automatic using epicyclic geartrains to provide gear ratios, is said to significantly improve fuel economy while also benefiting driving performance.
Rapid lock-up of the torque converter coupling, made possible by carefully developed shock absorption systems, contribute to better fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions.
ZF say the new transmission has extremely swift shifting times which are "below the threshold of perception." As a result, the shifting strategy can include double shifts and multiple shifts, allowing the transmission to react more quickly to changing conditions and driver demand.
The new transmission will be built at ZF's plant in Greenville, South Carolina.
