Ford has started production of a new 10-speed automatic gearbox option for rear-wheel drive (RWD) Transit models that offers excellent fuel efficiency,1 outstanding durability and the ability to tow up to 2,800kg.
The automaker said the new transmission was ideal for higher weight conversions including grocery delivery vans, emergency response vehicles and motorhomes, as well as the factory-built 15 seat and 18 seat minibuses.
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Developed in house and proven in models as diverse as the Ranger and F150 pick-ups and Mustang, the intelligent transmission is designed to minimise fuel costs for owners and operators using a broader spread of ratios that allows engines to operate at their most efficient.
Available in Europe for Turkish built RWD Transit variants powered by the 170PS two-litre EcoBlue HDT diesel engine, the 10-speed automatic transmission underwent intensive performance and durability testing to ensure suitability for heavy-duty use in commercial vehicles that operate at high weights, tow frequently, and have high-intensity work schedules
The existing six-speed automatic which remains available for lighter duty front-wheel drive models.
Real-time adaptive shift scheduling allows the transmission to adapt to changing conditions, enabling the optimum gear selection for performance, fuel efficiency or refinement in any driving scenario.
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By GlobalDataComputer simulations helped optimise the gearbox architecture by balancing the benefits of more ratios against energy lost during more frequent gear changes. A 10-speed gearbox that allows higher torque and power as well as delivering the right gear at the right time proved the optimal choice.
Ford’s Casting-Integrated Direct Action Solenoid (CIDAS) is one of 20 technologies patented during the transmission’s development. The CIDAS increases clutch pressure accuracy and reduces stroke time to deliver faster, smoother gear changes, resulting in more torque being transferred to the road more of the time, to make lighter work of heavy duty operation. This also means drivers can use less throttle for the same performance result.
A patented low-viscosity transmission fluid reduces internal friction, further enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing component wear as well as eliminating the need for scheduled fluid changes. A variable vane pump changes delivery according to demand, which decreases parasitic losses and improves vehicle refinement. The high speed, one way clutch also significantly reduces vibration and harshness during low speed gear changes benefiting drivers who spend long shifts in the cab.
The 10-speed automatic transmission is calibrated specifically to suit Transit driving characteristics and applications, and to work alongside Auto Start-Stop technology. Acceleration is smooth and progressive at slow speeds and when accelerating from a standstill.
Equipped with the 10-speed automatic gearbox, Transit offers GVMs ranging from 3,500kg to 4,600kg and single or dual rear wheel options and is available with chassis cab, minibus and van body styles. A generous maximum GTM of 6,100kg is ideal for operators in construction, utilities or events industries who frequently tow equipment. The 10-speed automatic gearbox allows towing up to 2,800kg.
