New 6-Speed Automatic to Replace CVT in 2006

In what seems like a move against current trends, General Motors will be terminating its continually variable transmission (CVT) at the end of model year 2005.

For the time being, according to Tom Stephens, group vice president of GM Powertrain, GMs CVT will continue as the automatic transmission choice in all-wheel drive 2005 Saturn VUEs, but before 2006 models arrive it will be dropped. At this time GMs CVT will end production.

With regards to the ION Coupe, a 4-speed automatic transmission will be offered throughout 2006 when it will be replaced by a new 6-speed automatic which is reportedly still in developmental stages. The new 6-speed automatic is expected to be available in a variety of cars and small SUVs across GMs broad product line.

Is Stephens referring to a version of the upcoming 6-speed automatic expected from the GM-Ford joint venture (see Automotive News Archives: Apr 21, 2004 - GM and Ford Develop 6-Speed Automatic Gearbox in Cooperation)? While GM did not comment, Detroit News reported that a Ford spokesman made mention that his company was looking into using the co-developed transmission in other application, which include smaller vehicles.

From a sales floor point of view, it makes sense that GM would axe the unconventional gearbox-type. Despite experiencing widespread use in Subarus subcompact mid-80s Justy and more recently, having become the automatic transmission of choice for everything from the MINI to front-wheel drive Audis, it doesnt appear in too many GM vehicles. Manufactured in a joint Fiat-GM powertrain facility in Szentgotthard, Hungary, the CVT found its way into GM of Europes Opel Astra compact, as well as the Saturn ION Coupe and Saturn VUE compact SUV. Such limited use hasnt made it very cost effective, and only the automakers import-fighting Saturn division, as well as possibly Cadillac and Saab, would have the right kind of "early adaptor" customer to take a risk on a newer technology.

How does a CVT work? Without going into too much detail, the CVT allows the engine to remain at a constant rev range as the vehicle accelerates rather than increasing engine revs over repeated intervals between gear changes, manipulating the final drive seamlessly from within the transmission. Just like a snowmobile, you keep going faster just by applying the throttle.

Why would GM invest millions into developing a CVT? Thats a good question. With Subaru, partly owned by GM, never expanding the use of the technology beyond its Justy subcompact, its surprising that the worlds largest automaker wouldnt have learned from its Japanese partner.

Just the same the lure of increased fuel economy, improved performance and fewer mechanical parts must have sounded enticing, or the automakers top brass would never have sanctioned its development.

But while GM looks to be walking away from a trend embraced by rival automakers, its upcoming 6-speed automatic will also be a trendsetter when it debuts in 2005. Most brands offer 4- or 5-speed automatics, with only the top-tier luxury brands choosing to outfit their most expensive models with 6- and 7-speed automatic transmissions. GM, and Ford of course, will have a leg up on the Japanese if in fact their 6-speed autobox becomes available first.

So, was it quality issues, low production or consumer disinterest that ended GMs CVT program? Probably all of the above, yet Stephens said the domestic automakers decision to kill its CVT is directly due to the increased performance and reduced fuel consumption of its 6-speed automatic, plus the economies of scale that will be part and parcel of producing the new 6-speed in higher volumes.

"We believe the future of GMs transmission portfolio is planetary gear 5- and 6-speed automatic transmissions, not CVTs,"

commented Stephens.

Whats more, GM will no doubt save money by replacing its CVT with the 6-speed automatic gearbox.

"The six-speed has more capability and range. It isnt giving up anything to CVT," added Stephens.

If the 6-speed in question is derived from the new GM-Ford gearbox, and it most likely is, it will be a sophisticated piece of engineering. Both Ford and General Motors will have invested a combined USD$720 million to develop and build the new transmission.

Production will take place separately, for GM at its Warren, MI transmission plant - that will incidentally save 1,100 jobs as a direct result - and for Ford at the Van Dyke facility in Sterling MI and Sharonville, OH plant.

Such cooperation is among the first major indicators that domestic automakers are getting serious about working together to thwart off import aggression. The two companies stated that working together will allow the transmission to arrive on the market faster while dramatically cutting costs.

So, will a Ford Focus behave similarly to a Chevy Cobalt when the new transmission is installed? While there will be some similarities for sure, the companies stated that each will deliver distinctive characteristics with regards to "feel and performance," due mostly to different shift intervals being used to optimize each brands unique engines.

The new 6-speed transmission will put Ford and GM ahead of Chrysler and the imported brands, which currently offer 4- and 5-speed automatic transmissions, or continuously variable transmissions (CVT). More gears usually translate into quicker acceleration due to shorter shift intervals and the ability to maintain an engines "sweet spot," the optimal rev range for maintaining highest output. Often 6-speed transmissions offer a taller high gear, which benefits fuel economy.