ATLANTA – Allison Transmission plans to release the first 9-speed fully automatic transmission in 2020, offering fuel savings and available to help meet the next round of greenhouse gas emissions standards.

At the North American Commercial Vehicle Show, company officials said the fully automatic transmission for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles will be available globally and is targeted for release in 2020.

The new 9-speed transmission has a deep first gear ratio, includes an integral engine stop-start system, and is scheduled to be released in time for the EPA's GHG Phase 2 emissions standards.

“This 9-speed product launch represents the first in a number of new products which will demonstrate Allison's ongoing commitment to addressing the global challenge of improved fuel efficiency and reduced greenhouse gases,” said Randy Kirk, senior vice president -product engineering and product teams. The new 9-speed will reach up to 7% greater fuel efficiency than the base 6-speed model, he added.

“Customers can also expect up to 10% greater [fuel economy] or more when compared to a competing transmission.”

The new transmission marks the first of its kind for the medium-duty market and is ideal for Classes 3-7, especially distribution trucks, rental and lease trucks, and buses, Kirk said. With the new transmission, drivers can also look forward to better comfort due to smaller steps, a smoother start, and improved acceleration, Allison says.

“Many OEMs in North America, Europe and Asia have expressed interest and excitement, with prototype evaluations beginning for them yet this year," Kirk said. “This is the first in a number of new products we’ll develop to meet the global challenge of increased fuel efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas emissions."