Volvo Trucks launches dual clutch transmission for HCVs

Transmissions with dual clutches are already in use in cars. Now Volvo Trucks is the first manufacturer in the world to offer a similar solution for series-produced heavy vehicles on certain Volvo FH models (with Euro-6 D13 engines with 460, 500 or 540 hp options) from end-2014.

The Swedish commercial vehicle manufacturer is launching I-Shift Dual Clutch, the first automated transmission for heavy vehicles with a dual clutch system. Thanks to power-shift gear changes, torque is maintained without any interruption in power delivery and, as a consequence, the truck does not lose any speed during gear changes. For the driver, the result is more comfortable and efficient progress on the road.

“In situations that require a lot of gear changes, for instance on hilly or windy roads, I-Shift Dual Clutch brings an entirely new dimension to truck driving,” says Claes Nilsson, president of Volvo Trucks.

I-Shift Dual Clutch is a transmission consisting of two input shafts and a dual clutch. This means that two gears can be selected at the same time. It is the clutch that determines which of the gears is currently active. I-Shift Dual Clutch is based on I-Shift, but the front half of the gearbox has been redesigned with entirely new components.

“When driving, it feels like you have access to two gearboxes. When one gear is selected in one gearbox, the next gear is already prepared in the other. With dual clutches, gear changes take place without any interruption in power delivery. As a result, engine torque is maintained and driving comfort is significantly improved,” says Astrid Drewsen, product manager for drivelines at Volvo Trucks.

“For trucks, this gearbox will truly make a major difference to driveability. The heavier the transport and the tougher the operating conditions, the more you will gain with I Shift Dual Clutch. Power-shift gear changes, where there is no interruption in power delivery, means it is easier to keep up with traffic, especially on difficult stretches of roads. The result is more relaxed and safe driving,” says Drewsen.

Image: I-Shift Dual Clutch can change gears without any interruption in power delivery, with the exception of the range-change, which takes place when shifting from sixth to seventh gear.