Sign up for our popular daily email to catch all the latest EV news!
ZF has initiated the US production of its PowerLine 8-speed automatic transmissions, marking a significant milestone from its manufacturing base in Gray Court, South Carolina. This development is part of a $200 million investment aimed at supporting the needs of three major US commercial vehicle manufacturers, with a target production capacity of 200,000 transmissions annually by 2025.
The PowerLine transmission is celebrated for its modular design, which accommodates both mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, positioning it as a forward-looking solution for the electrification of commercial vehicles. This innovation not only caters to the rugged demands of commercial vehicle operations but also offers the smooth shifting experience typically associated with passenger cars, contributing to enhanced fuel efficiency and vehicle acceleration.
Prof. Dr. Peter Laier, a member of the ZF Board of Management, emphasized the strategic importance of this launch, stating, “ZF is a partner of choice for the North American Commercial Vehicle industry. With cutting-edge innovations, like PowerLine, we position ourselves as the leading supplier in North America.” He highlighted the dual focus on advancing mobility technologies and strengthening customer proximity by manufacturing in North America for the local market.
The PowerLine transmission, designed to service a wide range of commercial vehicles from class 5 through class 8 trucks, incorporates ZF’s patented 8-speed gear layout. This design ensures optimal torque delivery from the outset and maintains efficiency at higher speeds, leveraging intelligent software to enhance shift quality, safety, and overall vehicle performance.
Gray Court’s facility, now recognized as ZF’s premier North American flex manufacturing site, showcases the company’s ability to produce both traditional and electrified driveline technologies for an array of vehicles. Prof. Dr. Laier added, “With today’s launch, ZF can now offer our North American customers a highly efficient, high-performance transmission solution.”
The start of PowerLine production in late 2023 represents a significant expansion of ZF’s Gray Court facility, dedicating nearly 50,000-square-feet to cater to the North American commercial vehicle market. These transmissions are expected to provide up to 10 percent fuel savings and potentially improve acceleration, enhancing the economic and safety aspects of commercial vehicle operation.
As the first US facility to manufacture the PowerLine transmission, the Gray Court location is actively recruiting new team members to join its ranks, supporting the ambitious growth plans tied to this launch. Interested individuals are encouraged to explore career opportunities via: zf.com/GrayCourt.
Sign up for our popular daily email to catch all the latest EV news!
