ZF: New 8-speed automatic with hybrid focus

ZF: New 8-speed automatic with hybrid focus

Take an efficient automatic transmission and replace the converter with an electric motor with the greatest possible power density. All previous hybrid transmissions are built according to this principle. Now the technology group ZF is turning the tables: The new generation of the 8-speed automatic transmission has been consistently designed for hybridization from the start. A modular system makes it possible to implement mild, full and plug-in hybrid drives with peak outputs of 24 to 160 kilowatts. The power electronics are no longer designed as a separate unit, but are completely integrated into the transmission housing. Nevertheless, the external dimensions of the gearbox do not increase. With a new, significantly smaller hydraulic control, ZF creates the installation space required for the electrical and electronic components.

Future-oriented

ZF will start production of the fourth generation of the 8-speed automatic transmission in 2022, initially in Saarbrücken. But the market launch in China and the USA will follow with a short delay. In this way, ZF is making a significant contribution to ensuring that modern hybrid drives quickly become established and reduce CO₂-Emissions from road traffic will fall in those market segments that cannot be fully electrified for the time being.