9-Speed automatic transmission from ZF wins “Innovation of the Year” award
June 12, 2012
At the annual “Auto Test Winners” prize-giving ceremony, ZF Friedrichshafen AG was announced as the winner of the newly-created “Innovation of the Year” category.
The editorial team from Auto Test motoring magazine chose the 9-speed automatic transmission (9HP) as the best innovation of 2012. Designed for vehicles with a front-transverse engine, it is the world’s first 9-speed automatic passenger car transmission.
The 9HP opens up new customer segments for ZF with its ‘transverse-to-the-direction-of-travel’ installation design. Thanks to its nine gears, this highly efficient transmission delivers fuel savings of up to 16% compared with today’s standard 6-speed automatic transmissions with a front-transverse installation.
The 9HP is designed according to the ZF modular principle. The basic transmission can be supplemented depending on requirements and customer wishes. Thus, different starting elements, hybrid and all-wheel drive applications can also be implemented cost-efficiently given the restricted installation space conditions with front-transverse passenger cars.
ZF is engaged in intense preparations for the transmission’s market launch and is currently setting up a transmission plant in Gray Court, SC, USA, where the 9HP will be produced from 2013.
Posted by: Paul Whittaker, Editor ipmd.net, [email protected]
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