Hanson Cement in Australia says it is introducing Allison's new load-based shift schedule (LBSS) program for all its concrete agitator trucks in a bid to maximise efficiency.
The company, which has been specifying Allison automatic transmissions for almost a decade – with more than 500 trucks fitted, mated to Cummins powerplants – says it is expecting LBSS to deliver "a significant improvement in fuel economy".
The fleet is mainly Iveco Accos and Mack Metroliners, all equipped with Allison 3000 series transmissions, and Hanson national fleet logistics manager Peter Black says they were a logical choice, given their track record for reliability and performance.
"Automatic transmissions are really the only choice for our operations. They make our drivers' jobs that much easier and safer. Given all the things that drivers have to look out for, we don't want them to have the extra task of changing gears," comments Black.
Adding in LBSS, which adjusts the transmission shift schedule to match the current vehicle load and operating conditions, will, he says result in reduced fuel consumption.
LBSS works by monitoring vehicle throttle and engine torque demand, as well as its acceleration. Under light load, the gear shifts are adjusted to ensure engine rpm is maintained at the most efficient point. When load increases or the truck encounters gradients, the shift schedule again adjusts to maximise performance.
