BMW To Use 8-Speed Gearbox
BMW will be obtaining the eight-speed automatic transmissions from ZF Friedrichshafen a German supplier that they often deal with. BMW has plans to debut the new transmission in the X6 Sport Activity Vehicle and 7-Series sedan.
The current BMW 7-Series both use six-speed automatics. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class utilizes a seven-speed automatic of their own design, while Lexus debuted their eight-speed transmission in the LS 460. Increasing the number of forward gears offers advantages in smoothness, acceleration, and improves fuel efficiency. Lower fuel consumption equates to reduced emissions, helping the powerful models meet increasingly stringent air quality standards in Europe and the United States.