Ford And GM Working Together On 9- And 10-Speed Transmissions: Report
Mercedes-Benz kicked off a transmission war with its seven-speed auto, and Lexus upped the ante in 2007 with its eight-speed unit. Specialist ZF followed with its own eight-speed shifter, which has featured in a wide range of Audi, BMW, Chrysler an
Mercedes-Benz kicked off a transmission war with its seven-speed auto, and Lexus upped the ante in 2007 with its eight-speed unit.
Specialist ZF followed with its own eight-speed shifter, which has featured in a wide range of Audi, BMW, Chrysler and Jaguar models.
Now, American icons Ford and GM have reportedly partnered on new nine- and 10-speed cog swappers, taking on ZF's upcoming nine-speed and a 10-speed from Hyundai.
According to US industry paper Automotive News, suppliers have quietly tipped that development of the new transmissions is in the early stages - although neither carmaker has offered any confirmation.
A GM spokesperson reportedly told the paper that discussions between the two brands are ongoing, focusing on the joint development of "a variety of all-new fuel-efficient transmissions".
The report adds that GM is expected to build the nine-speed unit, destined for front-wheel-drive models, while Ford will produce the 10-speed for rear-wheel-drive and performance models.
For now, GM is understood to be developing its own eight-speed shifter, expected to debut in a new Cadillac model in the coming year.
Ford has also been working on its own eight-speed unit, although recent reports suggest that this project has been binned in favour of the new joint venture.
- Ford news and reviews | GM news and reviews
- Industry news | Technology
2013_lincoln_mkz_06