We know that Honda is heavily investing into continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) but what about a standard automatic transmission offering?
It appears that the Japanese automaker could be investing in a nine-speed automatic manufactured by German supplier ZF. Chances are though that we won’t see any Hondas or Acuras on the road equipped with it until 2014 at the earliest.
The transmission is called 9HP by ZF and could be the same unit that Chrysler plans on using in its model lineup. Even though the Japanese automaker has developed its own transmissions over the years, the 9HP is designed for transverse installations, making it ideal for front- and all-wheel drive vehicles. In addition it utilizes planetary gearsets, helping save space.
According to ZF, the transmission is capable of supporting up to 354 lb-ft of torque and could be used in both start/stop and hybrid drive systems.
Of course the Japanese automaker didn’t confirm or deny the reports, but if the rumors are true and Honda is indeed switching to the transmission by 2014, we could see it with the new-generation Acura TL to start.
[Source: Automobile Mag]
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