Ford will add a dual clutch transmission to an unnamed small car in the U.S. starting in 2010. This would make Ford the first domestic automaker to offer a dual clutch transmission in the U.S. Chrysler was in the process of developing a dual clutch transmission with Getrag, but that program is on hold indefinitely.
The Ford transmission, which carries the oddly butch Powershift name, is more of a sure thing. In fact, the diesel powered Focus sold in Europe already uses a variation of the Powershift gearbox. In that application, wet clutches are used to handle the diesel's extra torque, but the North American version will use a dry clutch setup.
According to Ford, the dry clutch setup is more durable and efficient. It will be a sealed unit that requires no maintenance and because it doesn't require all the hydraulic hardware associated with the wet clutch system, it will weigh 30 pounds less than the current four-speed automatic found in the Focus.
firstwagon says:
10:53 PM, 01/20/09
Wonder what it costs to change a clutch on that thing.
estreka says:
12:28 AM, 01/21/09
I'm always skeptical about zero mnx items like this, but good on Ford for moving in the right direction. With all the innovation they've been going through, I dare say Ford is becoming the Honda of Detroit.
flicmod says:
05:27 AM, 01/21/09
Question: where has Bob Holland been? Haven't seen a post from him in days. Is he on vacation or did you guys fire him?
moparbad says:
08:51 AM, 01/21/09
Do you miss the Subaru centric posts from Bob?
Ed took over for Bob, it was announced not too long ago.
redliner says:
09:06 AM, 01/21/09
The race is on. Who will be the first domestic auto maker to put out a dual clutch tran?
stovt001 says:
09:44 AM, 01/21/09
Ford is doing a good job tempting this long-time GM guy to switch sides. As much as I want a true manual, I fear they are swiftly becoming extinct. Besides, with my bad knees and LA area traffic, maybe two pedals would be better for me.
flicmod says:
10:29 AM, 01/21/09
Jeez. I must've been out of town for that news.
Nah. Bob can have Subaru. I much prefer Hellwig's posts.