Mitsubishi Fuso selects Allison for Aero Star Transit Bus 21 June 2010

Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus has specified Allison's T310 fully automatic transmission for its new Aero Star large transit bus in Japan.

It's the first time a Japanese transit bus has exclusively adopted a fully automatic transmission. Just as interesting, the new vehicle complies with Japan's 'Post New Long Term Emission Regulations' – the world's most stringent – as well as the country's 2015 fuel efficiency standard for heavy-duty vehicles.

Masahiro Horiuchi, MFTBC's project manager of Aero Star, reports that fuel economy has been improved, while NOx and particulate matter (PM) are down, as a result of combining a 7.5 litre, 6M60 engine with MFTBC's BlueTec technology and the Allison transmission.

"The combination of the Allison fully automatic transmission and a smaller displacement engine is a solution to comply with Japan's 2015 fuel efficiency standard for heavy-duty vehicles," says Horiuchi.

"The Allison torque converter provides smooth starting and acceleration, even with a smaller displacement engine. Allison's power shifting technology enables uninterrupted power to the wheels, even during shifts, which makes the most efficient use of engine power and torque."

The new bus also incorporates Allison Prognostics, a first for a Japanese transit bus.

"We expect a reduction in overall lifecycle cost with Allison Prognostics. This system monitors various operating parameters, such as oil and filter life, together with overall transmission health, to avoid unnecessary maintenance or repair," explains Horiuchi.

Author
Brian Tinham

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