The considerable improvement in driving behavior, which applies to all drivelines at all emission levels, results from the new mode of interaction between gearbox and engine. Now the clutch actuation is faster, which shortens the torque interruption time. Smoother gear changes make driving more harmonious.
“The faster gear change optimizes gear selection. The more gear changes the road and terrain require, the more the driver will appreciate these improvements. Since I-Shift can make gear changes up to 30% faster, drivers will definitely see a very positive difference,” says Pär Bergstrand, Heavy Duty Transmission Manager at Volvo Trucks.
High-speed gearshifting relies on several key improvements. First, the upgraded sensors provide more accurate data to the control box, which features new software and a faster microprocessor, speeding up calculations. Then, the addition of a disc to the brake of the gearbox allows a faster reaction; the gear change is therefore carried out earlier. Finally, the volume of air in the various actuation circuits has been reduced, for example in the release forks, the clutch and the gearbox brake, to speed up gear changes.
When the I-Shift was launched in 2001, it was the very first automatic transmission designed for heavy-duty vehicles. It works with the entire powertrain, since it is matched to the vehicle’s engine and components from the design stage, helping to reduce fuel consumption and therefore environmental impact. I-Shift enhances safety and has other important benefits such as reduced noise, vibration and physical fatigue for the driver.
This 30% reduction in shifting time is further proof of Volvo’s constant efforts to improve driving pleasure in all respects. “With all the improvements and new variants over the years, the I-Shift does more and more, more and more sophisticated tasks, and does so efficiently. It’s not just about increasing performance and fuel efficiency, but also providing exceptional comfort and driving pleasure,” comments Pär Bergstrand.
Currently, all Volvo trucks are fitted with I-Shift as standard. Since its launch, more than one million trucks using Volvo’s exclusive I-Shift technology have been sold worldwide.
Volvo Trucks press release.
