Ford to focus on high-tech transmissions

Transmissions are an often-forgotten part of a vehicle's drivetrain when it comes to fuel mileage, but Ford says their selection of advanced gearboxes are playing a vital role in bringing down fuel consumption for their model lineup. By adopting six-speed automatic transmissions, the automaker is able to boast higher levels of performance and mileage for vehicles to which they're fitted.

"Ford is rolling out an industry-leading array of fuel-efficient, six-speed automatic transmissions on more than half of the North American product lineup, including the new 2009 Ford F-150" said Craig Renneker, chief engineer for new automatic transmissions at Ford Powertrain Operations.

A new front-drive six-speed transmission will debut in the 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner twins later this year, replacing the four-speed automatics currently in use. Drivers can expect a 4 to 6 percent increase in fuel mileage with the new unit on board.

Additionally, a dual-clutch transmission called 'Power Shift' is in use on diesel vehicles in Europe- and Ford claims it's saving owners up to 10 percent in fuel costs. It's coming here in the future, too.

"These new technologies are all about fuel economy," Renneker said. "Particularly, here with the six-speed autos, we're delivering a wide ratio span that provides a high top gear for fuel-efficient cruising while delivering good launch feel for lower displacement engines. This technology will mate perfectly with the new Ford EcoBoost engines that are on the way."

Ford will highlight their advanced transmissions at the 2008 SAE World Congress in Detroit this week.