Auto Expo 2014: Mahindra launches AutoShift transmission developed with Ricardo

Mahindra & Mahindra has revealed AutoShift, a new state-of-the-art, five-speed automated manual transmission at the Auto Expo, the result of a technology and engineering collaboration with Ricardo, the global multi-industry consultancy for engineering, technology, project innovation and strategy. The new transmission has been introduced in the 2014 model year Quanto compact SUV.
The AutoShift transmission incorporates the key efficiency advantages of a manual transmission while providing the smooth comfort and convenience of an automatic. 
Ricardo says the unit has some extremely advanced technologies resulting from the collaboration with Ricardo. These include an advanced electronic control and hydraulic actuation system that senses driver demand and initiates gear changes automatically based on a highly optimised shift map that delivers the best possible fuel efficiency.

“We are extremely pleased to be able to reveal the brand-new Mahindra AutoShift five-speed automated manual transmission, which has been developed through our longstanding and highly successful collaboration with global technology leader Ricardo,” commented Rajan Wadhera, chief executive – technology, product development and sourcing for Mahindra.

“The AutoShift is undeniably a first for the Indian automotive sector in that we have captured the best globally available skills and technologies and created a truly innovative product to be manufactured from the outset, here in India. Developed in partnership with Ricardo, it promises our customers an exceptional automatic driving experience with superb fuel economy – and a fully capable manual mode where demanded.”
“Ricardo is proud to have been able to work with Mahindra on this impressive new AutoShift transmission system,” added Ricardo India president Mayank Agochiya. “Ricardo and Mahindra share an ethos of deploying excellence in engineering skills and technology to create highly innovative and market-leading products for customers that set new benchmarks for quality.”

Photograph (L-R): Mahindra & Mahindra’s Rajan Wadhera, Dr Pawan Goenka, ED and president (automotive & FES), and Anand Mahindra, chairman, Mahindra Group, at the Auto Expo with the AutoShift-equipped Quanto.