ATLANTA, Oct. 28, 2019 – The PACCAR 12-speed automated transmission will incorporate new PACCAR MX engine-optimized shift calibrations to enhance performance, beginning in January 2020. As a result, the PACCAR transmission will become available in light vocational applications, including construction, mining, refuse, and agriculture for the vocational leader Kenworth T880.
The PACCAR transmission’s new performance shift calibrations will provide higher full throttle upshift points to enhance overall performance and acceleration, and higher power downshift points to prevent speed loss on grades and higher resistance surfaces. Faster, more aggressive ramp rates and quicker shifts on grades will improve acceleration. The transmission also offers faster full-throttle launches with quicker, more aggressive clutch engagement.
Designed for applications up to 110,000 pounds gross vehicle weight, the expanded PACCAR transmission availability is intended for Kenworth T880s that travel mainly on paved roads and occasionally operate off highway on maintained dirt or gravel roads.
“The PACCAR transmission has been very well received by customers since it entered the market two years ago for the on-highway flagship Kenworth T680, and was added for the traditional long hood Kenworth W990 last year,” said Laura Bloch, Kenworth assistant general manager for sales and marketing. “Drivers like the PACCAR transmission’s driveability, smooth shifting and convenience, which can help reduce fatigue. Fleets appreciate the opportunity to enhance fuel economy and expand their driver recruitment pool beyond manual transmission experienced drivers only.”
The PACCAR transmission is the lightest heavy-duty transmission for on-highway commercial vehicles. The transmission is available with the PACCAR MX-13 engine rated up to 510 hp and 1,850 lb-ft of torque, and PACCAR MX-11 engine rated up to 430 hp and 1,650 lb-ft of torque.
The PACCAR transmission is an integral feature of the optimized PACCAR Powertrain, which includes PACCAR MX engines and the PACCAR 40K tandem rear axles.
