Ford to produce 1.4-million fuel efficient cars with 6-speed transmissions by 2009

08 May 2008

Ford Motor Company plans to increase production of its fuel-efficient cars to more than double the number – to 1.4 million, equipped with fuel-efficient, 6-speed automatic transmissions in its North American cars and trucks by the end of 2009.

The American car maker claims that by the end of 2012,  over 98 per cent cars in Ford North American will be equipped with advanced 6-speed gearbox transmissions, maintaining the automaker's position as a leader of high-performance, fuel-efficient power trains.

Ford's newest 6-speed is the 6F35, to be introduced in the 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner sport-utility crossover vehicles, replaces the current 4-speed. It also will be used in the 2009 Mazda Tribute, as well as two other vehicles early next year. The 2009 models of the Escape and Mariner  powered by  powerful engines, and the  new 6F35, will increase the fuel economy by 1 mpg, said Ford

The advanced transmissions provide customers 4 to 6 per cent improved fuel economy compared with typical 4- and 5-speed gearboxes, as well as better acceleration and a quieter and more refined driving experience. Key to the new 6-speed transmissions is increased gear span compared with 4- and 5-speeds, which allows vehicle power trains to operate at a more optimum level, depending on the particular driving situation.

In addition, with two more gears, a 6-speed transmission allows the engine to operate at its optimum efficiency, for a greater period of time, further boosting fuel economy, according to the company

''Advanced six-speed automatic transmissions are an important element in our sustainability strategy to improve fuel economy for our customers and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent in our new vehicles by 2020,'' said Barb Samardzich, vice president, Ford North America Powertrain Operations.