PACCAR introduced the new PACCAR Automated Transmission, an ultra light heavy-duty transmission for on-highway commercial vehicles. The PACCAR transmission is designed to complement PACCAR MX engines and PACCAR axles. Kenworth and Peterbilt will begin offering the PACCAR Automated Transmission to North American customers in October 2017.
The PACCAR Automated Transmission is designed for line-haul applications up to 110,000 lbs. Gross Vehicle Weight. It is available for engine ratings up to 510 HP and 1,850 lb.-ft. of torque and features tightly integrated electronic communications with the PACCAR MX engine.
Standout features of the release include an ergonomic, column-mounted shifter, a maintenance-free clutch, fluid pressure detection system and advanced predictive features. Test drivers from multiple commercial trucking groups said the smooth shifting stood out, and vehicles were quiet on cruise.
A facility tour of the 130,000 sq ft lab demonstrated how PACCAR transmissions undergo rigorous testing inside a Climatic Chassis Dynamometer (CCD).
“The PACCAR Automated Transmission is engineered to work seamlessly with PACCAR MX engines and PACCAR axles and provide industry-leading performance,” said Landon Sproull, PACCAR vice president. “Together, PACCAR Powertrain components deliver superior fuel economy, uptime and driver satisfaction — top priorities for our customers.”
Patrick Dean, chief engineer of Kenworth, adds, "Every truck we sell has a telematics system built into it." This allows drivers to make the right decisions based on real-time information.
The PACCAR Automated Transmission offers superior overall gear ratio coverage providing low-speed maneuverability, and the transmission is up to 105 pounds lighter than comparable transmissions, savings that customers can use to haul more payload. The 750,000-mile oil change interval is the longest available for line-haul applications, according to the company, which reduces maintenance costs and increases uptime.
The transmission includes a differentiated fluid pressure detection system that protects the gears and shafts from low fluid conditions and allows PACCAR to offer industry-leading warranty coverage. Other features include a maintenance-free clutch and an internally routed electrical system to maximize durability. PACCAR’s new column-mounted shifter puts gear selection and engine brake controls at the driver’s fingertips for better ergonomics and improved performance.
