Volvo Trucks Launches Dual Clutch for Heavy Vehicles
Sweden-based Volvo Group said its European division, Volvo Trucks, is launching a first-of-its-kind transmission with a dual clutch system for its heavy vehicles.
The I-Shift Dual Clutch’s power-shift gear changes without interruption in power delivery, and the truck does not lose speed during gear changes, according to Volvo Trucks.
The I-Shift Dual Clutch will be available on the Volvo FH with Euro 6 D13 engines in the fall. The clutch is not available in the United States.
“In situations that require a lot of gear changes, for instance on hills or roads with lots of curves and bends, I-Shift Dual Clutch brings an entirely new dimension to truck driving. Here at Volvo Trucks, we are immensely proud to be able to offer this innovation to our customers,” Volvo Trucks President Claes Nilsson said in a statement.
The transmission has two input shafts and a dual clutch allowing two gears to be selected at the same time. The clutch determines which gear is active.
“For trucks, this gearbox will truly make a major difference to drivability. The heavier the transport and the tougher the operating conditions, the more you will gain with I-Shift Dual Clutch. Power-shift gear changes, where there is no interruption in power delivery, means it is easier to keep up with traffic, especially on tricky stretches of roads. The result is more relaxed and safe driving,” said Astrid Drewsen, product manager for drivelines at Volvo Trucks.
Volvo Trucks video on how the I-Shift Dual Clutch works.
