All Entries Tagged With: "8 speed automatic"
Ford, Ram, and Now GM Bringing 8 Speeds to 2013/2014 Trucks – Will Toyota Follow?
Automotive News is reporting that the next generation of GM pickup trucks will feature at least one 8 speed automatic transmission, the goal of course being to reduce fuel economy in order to meet federal fuel economy regulations. It’s estimated that going from 6 speeds to 8 speeds can increase fuel economy 3-6% (likely closer to the higher number in a pickup), and that combined with other fuel-saving technologies, the next generation of trucks coming out in 2013/2014 could see 10-20% fuel economy improvements right away.
2013 Dodge Ram To Have 8-Speed Automatic
A source at Ram has confirmed that the next generation of the Ram 1500 will offer at least one eight-speed automatic transmission. This is expected to boost fuel economy by about five percent over the current model, but it’s unclear just how much this will add to the window sticker. At this time, the likelihood of an eight-speed transmission in a Ram HD truck is “low” – at least for that 2013/2014 time line. Still, the source said that an 8-speed was likely in an HD truck at some point.
When compared to the current five-speed transmission available on the Ram 1500, the new eight-speed’s additional gears will better utilize the V-8 Ram’s substantial horsepower and torque. Shorter low gears are also expected to address dissatisfaction with the Ram’s current transmission ratios, and increase its competitiveness in towing and acceleration.
