Say what you want about Dodge...errrr "Ram" trucks, but they are catching a few eyes.

[rsewill]

You say "the clutch" but it actually has two. VW calls it the DSG, Doppel Schalt Getriebe, or double clutch transmission. it uses one clutch and countershaft for the odd numbers and one clutch+countershaft for the even gears. The computer preselects the sychromesh couplings, then enganges the other clutch.

John Deere copied this VW concept in the new 7R series, with 8 gears. It has a lot less drag losses than a powershift (only 1 clutch pack at a time that slips, while the other is engaged) and no hydrostatic losses like their IVT powersplit variable transmission.

I am sure the DSG concept will find more applications, its very usefull in mixed application dumptrucks where little drag loss is required on the highway, and faster shifting is required to keep rolling in rough terrain... Lets see which OEM picks up the glove...

I didn't, thanks!