US: BorgWarner wet dual clutches for FAW models

BorgWarner United Transmission Systems (BWUTS), a joint venture between the US-based supplier and 12 Chinese automakers in Dalian, will supply 'DualTronic' (twin clutch) control modules and clutch modules with integral torsional vibration dampers for FAW's new seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

April 26, 2012

BorgWarner United Transmission Systems (BWUTS), a joint venture between the US-based supplier and 12 Chinese automakers in Dalian, will supply ‘DualTronic’ (twin clutch) control modules and clutch modules with integral torsional vibration dampers for FAW’s new seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

The gearbox is expected to debut in FAW’s flagship Hongqi (Red Flag) luxury sedan in late 2013 and will be the first Chinese-built rear-wheel drive DCT. Two other transmissions are under development for production in 2014 and 2015 with total planned volume of at least 500,000 units a year. Improved solenoids and new friction materials with the latest clutch pack design deliver better fuel economy and torque transfer compared with previous wet and dry clutch systems, BW claimed.

Its transmissions chief Robin Kendrick said: “Interest in dual clutch transmissions is particularly strong among vehicle manufacturers in major growth markets in Asia and Europe. The overall market [is expected] to grow from 2.6m units in 2011 to 8.7m units by 2017.”