PACCAR, a global technology leader in the design, manufacture and customer support of high-quality light-, medium-, and heavy-duty trucks under the Kenworth, Peterbilt, and DAF nameplates, has introduced a 12-speed automated transmission, the lightest heavy-duty transmission for on-highway commercial vehicles.

Kenworth and Peterbilt will begin offering the PACCAR Automated Transmission to North American customers in October 2017.

“The PACCAR Automated Transmission is engineered to work seamlessly with PACCAR MX engines and PACCAR axles and provide industry-leading performance,” said Landon Sproull, PACCAR vice president. “Together, PACCAR powertrain components deliver superior fuel economy, uptime, and driver satisfaction —top priorities for our customers.”

The PACCAR Automated Transmission is designed for line-haul applications up to 110,000 lbs. Gross Vehicle Weight. It is available for engine ratings up to 510 HP and 1,850 lb.-ft. of torque and features tightly integrated electronic communications with the PACCAR MX engine.

The PACCAR Automated Transmission offers the best overall gear ratio coverage available providing excellent low-speed maneuverability and the transmission is up to 105 lbs. lighter than comparable transmissions, savings that customers can use to haul more payload.

The 750,000-mile oil change interval is the longest available for line-haul applications, which reduces maintenance costs and increases uptime.

The transmission includes a differentiated fluid pressure detection system that protects the gears and shafts from low fluid conditions and allows PACCAR to offer industry-leading warranty coverage. Other features include a maintenance-free clutch and an internally routed electrical system to maximise durability. PACCAR’s new column-mounted shifter puts gear selection and engine brake controls at the driver’s fingertips for better ergonomics and improved performance.