Autoblog

Bugatti orders two more years worth of transmissions... but where are they going?

Noah Joseph — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST

The automotive industry tends to work by certain norms and patterns. For example, by the time one model is ready to be phased out, we usually have a pretty good idea of how its replacement is shaping up and when it will appear. But Bugatti, of course, is no typical automaker.

The House that Ettore Built has, for the past seven years, subsisted on the Veyron alone. Don't get us wrong, it's one heck of an automobile around which to build a brand, but it won't be around forever. In fact, Bugatti announced a while ago that Veyron production was running its course and nearing its end. The open topped Grand Sport, as it turns out, was outside that original allotment, but even that is nearing the end of its road.

So you can imagine our surprise when Ricardo, the company that makes the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission for the Veyron, announced today that it had extended its contract with Bugatti for another two years. Which would be straightforward enough if there were cars in which Bugatti would be installing said transmissions, but as we already established, the marque's sole product is nearing the end of its life-cycle, with no replacement in sight.

So where are these transmissions going? There can only be a few explanations. One is that Bugatti is planning to extend Veyron production with another derivative - likely the Super Grand Sport that is expected to combine the removable roof panel on the Grand Sport with the more powerful engine and bodywork of the Super Sport. Another is that the Galibier - a four-door super-sedan in the pipeline at Bugatti's Molsheim, France HQ - is closer than previously expected, but that model is expected to shift to a different type of transmission altogether.

One possibility we can't quite accept is that Bugatti is stockpiling components as substantial as a gearbox without having a model in which to install them, so watch this space for more news. In the meantime, scope out the press release after the jump to inspect for yourself.

Continue reading Bugatti orders two more years worth of transmissions... but where are they going?

Bugatti orders two more years worth of transmissions... but where are they going? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Fiat's new DCT porting over to Chrysler models by 2013

Noah Joseph — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 11:01:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Chrysler, Fiat

What did we tell you? It's all about synergy, people. Automakers around the world are aligning themselves into a constricting cadre of corporate groups, all in the aim of sharing resources. So when Fiat, for example, has a winner on its hands - be it a new platform, a new transmission or anything in between - you know it'll only be a matter of time before it finds its way to Chrysler headquarters in Auburn Hills. Likely in Sergio Marchionne's hand luggage.

The latest from Fiat Powertrain Technologies is its TCT dual-clutch transmission. Lighter than most units at 179 pounds, versatile enough to be mated to a broad range of engines, and packing six speeds and two dry clutches, the gearbox has been in development for over five years now since the split with General Motors.

The transmission was made available initially on the Alfa Romeo MiTo, but will - according to Inside Line - soon find its way into a broad range of vehicles from Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Lancia, and yes, Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge, too. IL says we should expect the gearbox to proliferate into all manner of Chrysler and Fiat products by 2013.

[Source: Inside Line]

Report: Fiat's new DCT porting over to Chrysler models by 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Dec 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Double-clutch transmissions graduate to the world of commercial trucks

Sam Abuelsamid — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 17:29:00 EST

Filed under: Technology

Fuso Duonic dual-clutch-transmission - Click above to enlarge

Dual-clutch transmissions have become increasingly popular in small cars and have even appeared in high-performance machines like the Porsche 911 and Bugatti Veyron. Now, Mitsubishi Fuso has become the first commercial truck maker to offer one of these fancy new gearboxes in a hauler.

The new six-speed M038S6 "Duonic transmission" features wet clutches and incorporates the ability to creep in traffic for smoother operation. Although Duonic-equipped trucks will probably be driven mostly in fully-automatic mode, the transmission can also be manually shifted. Mitsubishi Fuso is 85-percent owned by Daimler, with the remainder being held by Mitsubishi.

[Source: Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation]

Continue reading Double-clutch transmissions graduate to the world of commercial trucks

Double-clutch transmissions graduate to the world of commercial trucks originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Aug 2010 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ford starts production of six-speed dual clutch PowerShift transmission

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 00:00:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Plants/Manufacturing, Technology, Ford

Ford PowerShift transmissions on the line - Click above for high-res image gallery

The new Ford Fiesta will be the first product vehicle from any of the Detroit automakers to have a dual clutch transmission, and production is starting today. The Ford PowerShift gearboxes are being built at the Getrag Americas joint venture factory in Irapuato, Mexico. At launch the plant is employing 200 people, a number that will double later this year when the plant also starts building the same transmissions for the 2012 Focus.

A dual clutch transmission can almost be thought of as two traditional manual transmissions, each with its own clutch operating in parallel and alternating shifts. The Ford unit is a six-speed with one clutch acting on gears 1, 3 and 5 and the other used for 2, 4 and 6. As first gear is engaged, the 2-4-6 clutch is disengaged and the second gear cogs are engaged. At the appropriate time, the 1-3-5 clutch is disengaged the other is engaged. While in second gear, the other side moves from first to third. The process is repeated with quick smooth shifts and none of the of the efficiency loss normally associated with torque converters.

The Ford gearbox also uses dry clutches, which are more efficient than the wet clutches previously used in some earlier Volkswagen DSG gearboxes.

The 1.6-liter Fiesta with PowerShift transmission is expected to get an EPA highway rating of at least 40 miles per gallon. The new Focus will use a 2.0-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine with the PowerShift transmission and may also approach 40 mpg, something Ford is surely hoping for in light of the just announced 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco and its unofficial highway mpg of 40 mpg or more.

Gallery: Ford-Getrag PowerShift transmission plant

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford starts production of six-speed dual clutch PowerShift transmission

Ford starts production of six-speed dual clutch PowerShift transmission originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Mar 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chrysler releases details on Fiat-infused fours, new V6

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Government/Legal, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep

Chrysler's New Four- and Six-Cylinder Engines - Click above for high-res image gallery

If Chrysler is looking to gain any one thing from its new parents at Fiat, it's engine technology. Specifically, the Pentastar will be enlisting its Italian overlords to supply direct injection systems, turbocharging, and Fiat's Multiair variable valve technology, along with new dual-clutch transmissions. Chrysler claims all of this technology is going to boost the overall fuel-efficiency of its vehicles by 25 percent between now and 2014, with over 80 percent of Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles getting new mills in the process.

To that end, Chrysler has finally announced the details of its new powertrain lineup, including two small-displacement four-cylinders and a new V6.

On the four-pot front, Chrysler will begin fitting one of two new 1.4-liter four-cylinder engines on future models: a naturally aspirated version kicking out 100 horsepower (at 6,750 rpm) and 95 pound-feet of torque (at 4,250 rpm), as well as a turbocharged variant that churns out 170 hp (at 6,750 rpm) and 170 lb-ft of twist (at 3,000 rpm). In keeping with its Italian ancestry, Chrysler has dubbed these new mills "Fully Integrated Robotized Engines" and each features Fully Variable-valve Actuation (FVVA) - what we've come to know as Multiair across the Atlantic. Chrysler maintains that both engines offer a 10 percent reduction in emissions and fuel consumption while putting out between 10- to 15-percent more power than its outgoing mills.

A larger displacement, 2.4-liter inline four with Multiair will also come to market, putting out 190 hp (at 6,000 rpm) and 175 lb.-ft of torque (at 4,200 rpm), and along with the new trio of four-cylinders, Chrysler announced specs on the new Pentastar V6. Displacing 3.6 liters and putting out 280 hp (at 6,400 rpm) and 260 lb-ft of torque (at 4,400 rpm), the new six will see similar fuel consumption and emissions reductions and will be fitted to the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee later this year.

In 2010, Chrysler says that it will begin to equip its mid-size vehicles (D-segment) with a new six-speed Dual Dry Clutch Transmission (DDCT), that improves fuel economy and can handle up to 260 lb-ft of torque. Expect to see the new tranny making its way into the next-generation Sebring and Chrysler's new crossovers.

And if all that wasn't enough, Chrysler announced its intentions to bring a hybrid Ram 1500 market this year, along with working with the Department of Energy to build a small test fleet of plug-in Rams and minivans, including an electric delivery van for fleet use in 2011 or 2012. All the details are available in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Chrysler's New Four- and Six-Cylinder Engines

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Chrysler releases details on Fiat-infused fours, new V6

Chrysler releases details on Fiat-infused fours, new V6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: 2011 BMW 1 Series to get DCT

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 16:30:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, BMW, Rumormill, Luxury

2009 BMW 135i - Click above for updated high-res image gallery

The BMW obsessives at Bimmerfile supposedly have it on good authority that the 2011 BMW 1 Series will be available with the same seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox fitted to the current Z4 and a handful of Euro-only models.

Although a six-speed manual will still be available, the proliferation of BMW's DCT throughout its line up -- including the 335i, M3 and Z4 -- makes adding the Getrag-source dual-clutch 'box to the 1 series a no-brainer. Specifically, it should be fitted to the updated 135i when it arrives later this year, which means launch control on BMW's smallest offering is just a few months away.

Gallery: 2010 BMW 135i

[Source: Bimmerfile]

Rumormill: 2011 BMW 1 Series to get DCT originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Jan 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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CNET announces nominees for Tech Car of the Year

Chris Tutor — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 08:28:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, BMW, Cadillac, Dodge, Infiniti, Lincoln, Nissan

About this time last year, Cadillac's CTS added CNET's Tech Car of the Year to its increasingly crowded trophy case. Its entertainment system's recording capability was one of the things that impressed us, and, presumably, the voters. This year, CNET asks its readers to choose between three imports and two domestics, none of which are Cadillacs.

BMW's M3 Convertible DCT gets a spot on the ballot with its dual-clutch transmission. We wonder if the car's recent recall for transmission problems will affect its standing. The Nissan GT-R shows up again, as you might expect with its cabin full of g-whiz electronics, from the in-dash performance computer to the quick-loading navigation. Lincoln makes the list for its THX-equipped MKS and Infiniti's EX35 Journey gets recognized for its lane-departure warning system and park-assist cameras.

The biggest surprise, though, is the Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie. The pachyderm-sized pickup impressed the CNET judges with its UConnect multimedia system which includes a 30GB hard drive, Bluetooth hands-free system, SIRIUS TV and rear seat DVD player.

The winner will be announced the second week of January to coincide with the Consumer Electronics Show in Vegas.

[Source: CNET]

CNET announces nominees for Tech Car of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Dec 2008 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW M3 recalled over new double-clutch gearbox

Noah Joseph — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:58:00 EST

Filed under: Recalls, BMW

Dual clutch transmission... sounds complicated. And it is. Case in point: BMW's new DCT on its latest-generation M3. This new transmission from Munich is so complicated that apparently even BMW couldn't get it right the first time, so they're issuing a recall. The problem, as concluded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is that under hard braking the transmission's software is prone to initiate a multi-stage downshift, which could cause the car to stall. The solution, however, should be fairly simple, as BMW is asking all owners of 2008 or 2009 M3s equipped with the DCT (about 2,500 in the United States) to come in for a software update, free of charge, at their local dealership. After the software update, M3 owners can perform all the panic stops they want in smooth-shifting bliss.

The official recall notice can be viewed on the NHTSA website. Thanks for the tip, TKE!

Gallery: 2009 BMW M3 Facelift

[Source: Good Car Bad Car]

BMW M3 recalled over new double-clutch gearbox originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi S3 and S3 Sportback get S tronic dual-clutch trannies

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 18:01:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Coupe, Budget, Technology, Hatchback, Audi

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Audi S3 Sportback

Audi's five-door S3 and its Sportback sibling will now be able to benefit from the S tronic dual-clutch transmission. Mated to the 2.0-liter TSFI, you'll seamlessly shift from first all the way to sixth, with 265 hp on tap and 258 lb-ft. available from just 2,500 rpm. You'll also get even better gas mileage, with both cars registering 28 mpg, not to mention hitting sixty two-tenths of a second faster than would with a manual: 5.5 or 5.6 seconds depending on whether you're piloting the three- or five-door. The DCT is available now, and for better gas mileage, quicker shifts, and a quicker car... why wouldn't you?

Gallery: 2009 Audi S3 Sportback

Continue reading Audi S3 and S3 Sportback get S tronic dual-clutch trannies

Audi S3 and S3 Sportback get S tronic dual-clutch trannies originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Getrag's U.S. transmission plant files for CH11 after Chrysler pull-out

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 15:33:00 EST

Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Chrysler

The roundabout that was the Chrysler, LLC-Getrag partnership recently came to an end with Chrysler pulling out the deal, citing untenable financing terms. Now Getrag Transmission Manufacturing, the U.S. company that was going to build the dual-clutch transmissions for Chrysler, has filed for Chapter 11. Getrag has done so in order to streamline its handling of claims and creditors.

Of course, it's not over: Getrag is suing Chrysler for pulling out, Chrysler is suing Getrag for not getting the $300 million financing that Getrag was supposed to bring to the table. Other than the lawsuits and bad blood, all that's left are the partial remains of the factory that was to build the transmissions, and Chrysler's need to find a source of dual-clutch transmissions. Just another monument to the turmoil the auto industry is currently mired in.

[Source: Automotive News, sub req'd]

Getrag's U.S. transmission plant files for CH11 after Chrysler pull-out originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2009 BMW 3-series to get DCT gearbox

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 14:26:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, BMW

The 2008 BMW M3 won't be the only 3-series to get Bavaria's newest dual-clutch gearbox. According to documents leaked out of BMW's Australian arm, the 2009 335i coupe will be available with a revised version of the DCT gearbox, at least Down Under... for now. The dual-clutch transmission is the same unit fitted on the V8-powered M3, but some changes to the software are planned to better suit the turbocharged, 3.0-liter inline-six powerplant. There's no word on when the DCT gearbox will be available on U.S. shores and we don't know what kind of premium the seven-speed tranny will carry, but a DCT-equipped M3 commands an additional $2,700 over the six-speed manual, so expect a similar price when the revised 335i goes on sale, likely later this year.

[Source: BimmerFile]

2009 BMW 3-series to get DCT gearbox originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat preparing Dual Dry Clutch transmission

Noah Joseph — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Trends, Europe, Fiat

Dual-clutch transmissions are emerging as the latest trend in automotive gearboxes, and the Italians aren't about to miss out on the newest fashion. Fiat announced earlier today a new family of six-speed transmissions, called C635, that will premiere as a manual in June 2009, followed by a dual-clutch version in September 2009 before the automated manual comes out in 2010.

The C635s will be offered on a range of Fiat products including Lancias and Alfa Romeos, and will be capable of handling 35kgm of torque. They'll be built by Fiat Powertrain Technologies at its Verrone plant 75km outside of Turin, handled by a workforce that will more than double to 1100 staff. Called the Dual Dry Clutch (DDC) transmission, Fiat's will follow Volkswagen's seven-speed second-generation DSG (which also switches from wet clutches to lighter-weight dry ones when it debuts on the Golf this month), Volvo's Powershift transmission (due next month) and the BMW M3's new M-DCT (available from March).

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Fiat preparing Dual Dry Clutch transmission originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Torvec targets medium-duty market with new infinitely-variable transmission

Eric Bryant — Mon, 07 Aug 2006 17:52:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Truck, Green, Technology, Work

Conventional wisdom says that continuously- or infinitely-variable transmissions (CVT and IVT, respectively) are destined to toil away under the hoods of compact cars, but Torvec is having none of it. The manufacturer recently installed its hydraulic-based IVT behind the Cummins turbodiesel of a 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 as a proof-of-concept demonstrator. While the primary application for the Torvec IVT is said to be school buses and other medium-duty vehicles - especially those engaged in a heavy amount of stop-and-go usage - the company is also enthusiastic about the transmission's prospects in the booming diesel heavy-duty light truck market.

A diesel engine is particularly well-suited to the characteristics of a CVT or IVT due to its relatively narrow powerband, but the torque limits of units based on belts or toroids have remained a problem. Of course, a hydraulic unit such as Torvec's may prove to have some drawbacks as well. Efficiency could be a problem (this has been an issue with the hydrostatic drives used in industrial vehicles and agricultural tractors), and of course keeping the hydraulic unit sealed for the average expected service life of a vehicle might be tricky. These are issues that can probably be overcome with some clever engineering, though, so we're not betting against Torvec.

[Sources: Autoindustry.co.uk; Torvec]

Torvec targets medium-duty market with new infinitely-variable transmission originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Aug 2006 17:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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