Honda Patents New 11-Speed Tri-Clutch Automatic

Honda has reportedly filed a patent in Japan for a new automatic transmission with no less than 11 forward ratios and three clutches. 

Despite predictions from ZF Auto CEO Stefan Sommer in 2012 that nine speeds was “the natural limit” for automatic transmissions, several carmakers are continuing to cram as many gears as possible into their autos.

Why? More gears allow for ultra-tall overdrive ratios that don’t impact on overall driveability - but they do lend themselves to improved fuel economy scores (and therefore, lower emissions in a world of ever-tightening regulations).

Also, kicking down from, say, eight gear to fourth in one step makes for impressive acceleration when required.

Honda already has a 10-speed unit in service, and Ford is known to be working on its own 11-speed ‘box.

Technology