Eaton introduces Fuller UltraShift 10-speed transmission

Eaton Corp. has introduced the Eaton Fuller UltraShift 10-speed, a fully automated heavy-duty truck transmission that provides North American fleets with fully automatic, two-pedal operation. The UltraShift 10-speed is based on the industry-proven Eaton Fuller 10-speed “B” ratio transmission and is offered in four torque capacities from 1,050-lb.-ft. to 1,650-lb.-ft. The UltraShift 10-speed is currently in its limited quantity release phase, with an initial production quantity of 1,000 over the next 12 months. UltraShift 10-speed key features and benefits include an automatic start with no clutch pedal, automatic shifting, computer-controlled shifts, “skip-shifting” provided as operating and load conditions allow, a patented automated mechanical Eaton Fuller “DM AutoClutch,” a high capacity inertia brake that speeds automated up-shifts and serves as a clutch brake and clutch-less “float shifting” between gears. The UltraShift 10-speed allows drivers to use the transmission in full automatic mode or with manual intervention, depending on conditions or driver preference. A Manual mode holds the current gear and allows driver-selected up-shifts or down-shifts. The Low mode feature can be used in any gear to prevent the transmission from up-shifting, and initiates downshifts to optimize engine braking performance. Low mode can also be used to select first gear at a standstill, and will hold in low until drive mode is selected. Full production begins in the spring of 2004.