KALAMAZOO, Mich. -- Eaton Corp. has released the results of an independent study confirming that automated manual transmissions (AMTs) achieve substantial fuel consumption advantages over conventional automatic transmissions. The simulation, which revealed fuel economy improvements of up to 22 percent as compared to a conventional automatic transmission, was conducted by Roush Industries Inc., for the U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center/National Automotive Center (TARDEC/NAC).
 
“We are extremely pleased with the results of this study as it once again confirms the fuel-saving benefits that are inherent in our growing lineup of automated transmissions,” said Staci Kroon, senior vice president and general manger, commercial vehicles for Eaton’s Truck North America Division. “In addition, it is always a positive when you can help reduce our industry’s carbon footprint. Our family of UltraShift transmissions is one way of reducing our industry’s carbon footprint and it is consistent with Eaton’s sustainability mission. This is definitely a win-win situation for both our customers and the environment.”
 
According to Jeff Spitzner, military account manager for Eaton’s Vehicle Group, Eaton provided Roush with the gear ratios and estimated efficiencies for a series of newly designed UltraShift PLUS heavy-duty automated transmissions for vocational and severe service use. These transmissions will be released for limited production in the fall of this year.
 
Spitzner added, “In order to eliminate uncontrollable outside variables and provide repeatable results quickly, the test was conducted using analytical simulation software that factored in optimized final drive ratios. That was able to provide a realistic comparison, and to take advantage of the wider operating ranges that are available on Eaton AMTs.
 
“The test went on to conclude that the fuel economy gains may be attributed to the greater efficiency of AMTs. In addition, the increased number of gears that are available, complimented with an optimized shift schedule, will keep the engine running in its most efficient range.”
 
These results were revealed at the National Defense Industrial Association Michigan’s Chapter’s first Ground Vehicle Systems Engineering and Technology Symposium, being held at the Detroit Marriott in Troy, Mich.