In a decisive transfer that blends legacy engineering with forward-thinking technique, BMW Group and ZF Friedrichshafen AG have signed a brand new multi-billion euro settlement to proceed creating the famend 8-speed automated transmission (8HP) nicely into the 2030s. The deal secures the way forward for a drivetrain staple at a time when the trade faces fast electrification, and it highlights BMW’s ongoing dedication to inner combustion engines and hybrid drivetrains the place demand stays robust.
A Transmission That Modified the Trade
First launched in 2008 on the BMW 7 Collection (F01) 760Li, the ZF 8HP transmission redefined what an automated might be. It provided a wider gear unfold, improved effectivity, lightning-fast shifts, and distinctive smoothness. BMW was the launch buyer, and its early adoption helped propel the 8HP into the limelight.
Over time, the 8HP has been utilized in thousands and thousands of automobiles throughout the automotive spectrum. From Rolls-Royce to Dodge Hellcats, it has turn into the gold normal of automated transmissions. Its potential to steadiness excessive torque functionality with refinement and effectivity has made it a go-to resolution not just for efficiency automobiles but additionally for luxurious sedans and SUVs.
BMW’s Position in Perfecting the 8HP
BMW was not simply an early adopter however a real growth associate for ZF. The 2 corporations collaborated carefully to combine the 8HP into almost each longitudinal BMW platform. From the three Collection to the X7, BMW engineers tuned shift logic, torque converter calibration, and integration with xDrive and hybrid methods to ship hallmark BMW dynamics and drivability.
This partnership helped ZF refine the 8HP right into a modular, scalable transmission that helps mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid configurations, proving it’s something however out of date.
What This Settlement Says concerning the Future
This new settlement extends into the late 2030s and ensures long-term provide and growth of the 8HP, which is able to proceed to be produced in Germany and the USA. It speaks volumes about BMW’s perception in a multi-path drivetrain future, the place inner combustion engines, hybrids, and electrical automobiles coexist.
- Inside Combustion Is Not Useless: World markets nonetheless demand high-quality gasoline and diesel automobiles. The 8HP permits BMW to fulfill these calls for effectively.
- Hybrid Integration: ZF has advanced the 8HP right into a platform that helps as much as 160 kW of electrical motor energy for plug-in hybrids, making it future-ready.
- Manufacturing Safety: With factories in Saarbrücken, Germany and Grey Court docket, South Carolina, the provision chain is native and secure for BMW’s international manufacturing wants.
- Buyer Profit: BMW drivers can proceed to take pleasure in the perfect automated transmission within the enterprise in each ICE and hybrid kind, delivering that uniquely easy and responsive BMW really feel.
The Highway Forward for the 8HP
Fairly than letting the 8HP fade quietly into historical past because the EV period accelerates, BMW and ZF are investing in its evolution. This long-term dedication ensures it can stay a cornerstone of BMW’s powertrain lineup for years to return.
For driving lovers and clients in markets the place EV adoption is slower, that is superb information. Now let’s hope we hear one thing comparable from Getrag concerning the 6 pace handbook.
