Innovative auto clutch technology with intelligent shift selection software, as well as gradient sensing, weight computation and driver throttle commands are key aspects of Eaton's new automated transmissions.
Staci Kroon, senior vice-president for Eaton's Commercial Vehicle Transmission business, says UltraShift Plus, is the result of several years' of work with truck makers on a range of applications.
With six platforms having different ratio sets and shift calibrations, "Eaton now provides hundreds of configurations for the application and powertrain, providing optimum performance, driving ease and fuel economy," she says.
Initially, it's aimed at US-manufactured heavy trucks. Application variants include: general haulage (with special attention to low-speed manoeuvrability for docking and backing into trailers); on-highway applications where standard transmissions are inadequate; and dump trucks, concrete mixers and others involved in demanding applications.
Interesting features include its: self-adjusting electronic clutch actuator, which Eaton says delivers fast, smooth gear engagement; a hill start aid that prevent rollbacks; an oil level sight glass; six- and eight-bolt PTO; and 'automatic', 'manual', 'low' and 'creep' selections.
