From Manual to Automatic: The Evolution of Truck AMT Transmissions

What is AMT? AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) is like giving a traditional manual transmission (MT) an intelligent "brain." It uses sensors, actuators, and a control unit known as the TCU to automatically handle clutch engagement and shifting.

Advantages of AMT AMT combines the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of manual transmissions with the intelligence and automation of electronic control. This technology originated in Europe in the 1960s.

Global Development History

• 1965: German company ZF began experimenting with semi-automatic transmissions, but issues arose due to underdeveloped electronic technology.
• 1973: French Renault trucks created the first electric-controlled AMT prototype, which could shift gears automatically based on engine speed and vehicle speed, but high costs prevented mass production.
• 1985: The "Freedom Line" AMT transmission, developed by Rockwell and ZF in the U.S., was launched. This system eliminated the clutch pedal and used electric-controlled pneumatic actuators for shifting, primarily used in North American heavy trucks.
• 1987: Mercedes-Benz introduced the EPS system, connecting the TCU with the engine ECU, which considered load and gradient when shifting.

Current Market Status of AMT Currently, the AMT market share for heavy commercial vehicles in Europe has reached 90%, while in the U.S. it is at 85%. In China, AMT started slow but had a market share of about 5% by 2020, with predictions of reaching 50% by 2025.

Future Outlook The future of truck AMT transmissions will be characterized by more modular and integrated designs, reducing costs and increasing efficiency. The software will also become smarter, enhancing driver experience by adapting to different scenarios. Moreover, the integration of smart connectivity and autonomous driving technologies will further promote the adoption of AMT, facilitating energy savings and emission reductions. Overall, AMT transmissions are set to become the mainstream choice for future truck drivetrains, driving a technological revolution in the transportation industry.