Lt CHEG
Platinum Member
Re: Say what you want about Dodge...errrr "Ram" trucks, but they are catching a few e
I actually think it's a good idea for them to have ZF build their transmissions. I actually like the idea of certain critical components being built by specialists, just like Dodge putting the best diesel in their trucks. Personally, if I could choose a Dodge but with a different company's transmission (like Aisin or ZF) I'll do so every time. Just like if I could buy a Ford with a different company's engine such as International for diesels, I would buy the non Ford power plant. And in the interest of fairness if I could get an aftermarket interior on GM trucks, I would do so.
In summary, I just think that if you're going to do something ground breaking like offering an 8 speed transmission in a light duty truck, then it's best to do so with your strongest possible showing. Having a company that specializes in transmissions build your new entry is a wise move in my opinion. Just like Dodge was wise to go with such a strong diesel engine builder when they turned the diesel pickup industry on its head in 1989. For that matter, just like when GM unveiled an automatic transmission which was finally up to the task of handling a diesel, they had an Allison. It's not always a bad thing to have a specialist make certain parts of your product, and sometimes it will justify a premium cost.
I actually think it's a good idea for them to have ZF build their transmissions. I actually like the idea of certain critical components being built by specialists, just like Dodge putting the best diesel in their trucks. Personally, if I could choose a Dodge but with a different company's transmission (like Aisin or ZF) I'll do so every time. Just like if I could buy a Ford with a different company's engine such as International for diesels, I would buy the non Ford power plant. And in the interest of fairness if I could get an aftermarket interior on GM trucks, I would do so.
In summary, I just think that if you're going to do something ground breaking like offering an 8 speed transmission in a light duty truck, then it's best to do so with your strongest possible showing. Having a company that specializes in transmissions build your new entry is a wise move in my opinion. Just like Dodge was wise to go with such a strong diesel engine builder when they turned the diesel pickup industry on its head in 1989. For that matter, just like when GM unveiled an automatic transmission which was finally up to the task of handling a diesel, they had an Allison. It's not always a bad thing to have a specialist make certain parts of your product, and sometimes it will justify a premium cost.
