NAPA VALLEY, CA –Detroit Diesel Corporation showcased the Detroit DT12 automated manual transmission. Part of the Detroit complete powertrain offering, the DT12 combines the operational ease of an automatic with the efficiency of a manual transmission, resulting in enhanced fuel economy, vehicle performance and safety, according to the company.

Available in the Freightliner Cascadia, the DT12 maximizes fuel efficiency for line-haul/long haul operations. Adding to the transmission’s overall economy is its lightweight design, which offers additional payload because of its aluminum housing and single counter shaft, according to Detroit Diesel Corporation.

The DT12 improves slow-speed maneuvering capabilities without compromising high road speed efficiency, according to the company. The 12-speed, direct- or over-drive automated manual transmission combines a traditional manual gearbox with high-speed, computer-controlled shift and clutch actuators that automatically and seamlessly select the right shift pattern and perfect clutch engagement for fuel economy and engine power. The DT12’s creep mode simulates a torque converter to improve low speed maneuverability for parking, docking, heavy traffic and other low speed situations.

Advanced technologies include Skip Shift, which automatically skips gears, enabling the transmission to run through lower gears faster to achieve cruising speed sooner; and eCoast, which allows the vehicle to “coast” down grades with the engine operating at idle speeds while preserving vehicle momentum, maximizing fuel efficiency, according to the company.

A proprietary control module communicates with the entire powertrain, giving the transmission and engine the ability to share information and offer complimentary functions. For example, the engine can limit torque to protect against driveline damage and harsh shifts, while the transmission can optimize shifts to keep the engine in the sweet spot.

It also features helical gears and geometrical optimized gear-cut for noise reduction; pneumatic clutch and shift actuation for faster gear shifts; a choice between eco or power-mode configuration; true two-pedal system for ease of operation; and a kick-down feature that improves vehicle acceleration when needed.

The DT12 comes standard with a 5-year/750,000 mile warranty, with a 2-year/200,000 miles warranty on the clutch.

The DT12 is also equipped with Virtual Technician, a factory-installed on-board diagnostics system. When a check transmission light illuminates, the fault is sent to a contact and the Detroit Customer Support Center who can analyze the issue. The driver receives a service recommendation and the nearest authorized location with parts in stock. The Detroit Customer Service network provides immediate access to maintenance information, and with hundreds of authorized locations in the United States and Canada, factory-trained technicians are always available, according to the company.