Dana has added a new axle ratio for the Spicer AdvanTek 40 tandem axle that helps support engine downspeeding for linehaul trucks.

The new axle ratio of 2.47:1 allows truck buyers to fine-tune their driveline specifications for an optimized balance of productivity and fuel efficiency, the compamny said.

Dana now offers seven different ratios to support engine downspeeding, ranging from 2.26:1 to 2.93:1.

The latest ratio is suited for direct-drive versions of the SmartAdvantage Powertrain from Eaton and Cummins. The configuration is recommended for regional-haul applications in a mix of driving environments.

The SmartAdvantage Powertrain features the Cummins X15 Efficiency Series engine paired with an Eaton Fuller Advantage 10-speed automated manual transmission.  The engine and transmission share critical data, determining the torque required to deliver better drivability and an optimum power level.

By using engine downspeeding and leveraging the Cummins X15 engine's low-end torque, many vehicle operators will see a tangible improvement in fuel economy over traditional drivelines, according to Dana.

“Dana, Cummins, and Eaton share engineering data in order to fine-tune the powertrain and maximize the benefits of engine downspeeding," said Mark Wallace, executive vice president of Dana and president of Dana Commercial Driveline Technologies.  "The Spicer AdvanTEK 40 axle, which is the fastest, lightest, and most efficient axle available, is fully optimized for the best-performing powertrain on the market, delivering a powerful system that manages dynamic challenges resulting from higher torque requirements."