Global InformationFord PowerShift transmission information
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The Ford PowerShift is a six- or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, produced by the Ford Motor Company.[1] The older Ford PowerShift gearboxes were built by Getrag Ford Transmissions, a joint-venture with Getrag, however it is unknown who exactly makes the newer 7-speed models.[2] PowerShift improves fuel efficiency by as much as 10 percent when compared to a conventional automatic transmission.[1]
The operation of a dual-clutch transmission is analogous to two traditional manual transmissions, each with its own clutch, operating in parallel and alternating shifts. The Ford unit is a six-speed with one clutch acting on reverse, first, third, and fifth gears, and the other used for second, fourth, sixth gears. As the first gear is engaged, the 2-4-6 clutch is disengaged and the second gear cogs are engaged. At the appropriate time, the R-1-3-5 clutch is disengaged and the 2-4-6 clutch is engaged. While in second gear, the other side shifts from first to third. The process is repeated with none of the efficiency loss normally associated with torque converters and, in theory, provides quick smooth shifts.
The older PowerShift gearboxes were developed jointly by Ford, Getrag, and LuK and were first introduced in Europe.
Lower torque versions of the PowerShift transmission, including the 6DCT250 DPS6 version used in the Ford Fiesta and Ford Focus, used dry clutches and electric motor/solenoid actuation.[2]
Newer PowerShift transmissions are still manufactured by Getrag and can be found on Ford Fiesta and Puma models starting with MY2020, these are known as 7DCT300 (wet clutch).
- ^ a b Verve, Focus, Kuka featured at 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, 2007-09-10.
- ^ a b Ford starts production of six-speed dual clutch PowerShift transmission, 2010-03-29