Unimog North America, Portland, Ore., has announced the availability of the electronic automated AutomaticShift transmission for its Unimog U500 commercial vehicles.

This automated transmission is designed to make driving easier and more efficient while minimizing wear and tear.
Introduced for the North American market earlier this year, the one-of-a-kind Unimog U500 is intended for specialized vocational applications in the U.S. and Canada. The versatile Class 6 and 7 work vehicle is being marketed for use in firefighting, utility service, municipal and highway services, construction and rail yard work.
The AutomaticShift transmission system contributes to safe and convenient gear changes without the use of a clutch pedal, allowing for less strain on the drive train, longer clutch life, lower maintenance costs and reduced fuel consumption.
The transmission system automatically selects the most appropriate gear, depending on vehicle load, engine operating state and the position of the accelerator, thus eliminating the risk of incorrect operation or selecting the wrong gear.
Manual intervention is possible at any time when the system is in automatic mode.
Used in conjunction with the standard Electronic Quick Reverse (EQR) system, the AutomaticShift transmission enables fast and easy maneuvering in forward and reverse. Activating the EQR and selecting the drive direction allows the vehicle direction to be changed automatically, without stopping the vehicle.
If necessary, manual shifting is still an option with the AutomaticShift transmission. A folding and unlocking clutch pedal is located on the left-hand side of the foot well, allowing drivers to change gears in a conventional manner.
The AutomaticShift transmission is available immediately. The Unimog U500 is available at selected Freightliner Trucks, Sterling, Western Star and American LaFrance dealerships in the U.S. and Canada.