Rumored: Honda, Acura Could Adopt ZF 9-Speed Automatic By 2014

[LP700-4]

Although most of Honda’s recent powertrain news has surrounded CVTs and dual-clutch transmissions, that shouldn’t be taken as a sign the automaker is abandoning conventional automatics altogether. In fact, the automaker will likely adopt a 9-speed automatic by 2014 at the earliest.

Automotive News first reported in late 2011 that Honda was planning on launching an eight- or nine-speed automatic in the near future, but a source close to the program now tells us the automaker will use the new nine-speed transverse automatic developed by German powertrain supplier ZF.

If that gearbox sounds vaguely familiar, it should: it’s set to make its initial debut in a string of Chrysler Group vehicles over the next two years. Fiat/Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne first hinted at using/developing the transmission in late 2010. Chrysler itself has been relatively mum on the subject, but UAW officials at the company’s plant in Toledo, Ohio, have suggested the replacement for the Jeep Liberty will be one of the first applications of the transmission.

The transmission, which ZF calls the 9HP, is designed for transverse installations, making it suitable for front- and all-wheel-drive platforms. Although Honda has typically developed its own transmissions, the 9HP will be a significant departure from Honda’s existing automatics in that it utilizes planetary gearsets in order to save space (ZF says the gearbox measures 20.5 inches wide, 16.6 in tall, and 14.5 inches deep).

ZF proclaims the gearbox is capable of handling up to 354 lb-ft of torque, and can support both start/stop and hybrid drive systems. The total gearing spread is quite wide (9.84:1), and taller gear ratios in the upper range of the gearbox allegedly play a big part in improving fuel economy by 10-16 percent. The supplier claims an engine mated to the 9HP needs to run at a mere 1900 rpm in order to propel a vehicle at 75 mph.

Honda officials refrained from confirming or denying the gearbox or its future applications, noting it’s company policy not to comment on future product plans. Given every Honda and Acura model currently on the market places its engine in a transverse fashion, the possibilities are theoretically endless, but we wouldn’t be surprised if this transmission is relegated to heavier and more upscale midsize models. Models like the Odyssey and Pilot, along with the Acura MDX and TL, are all potential recepients. Presently, these models utilize Honda’s 3.5-liter and 3.7-liter V-6 engines, and produce between 253 and 270 lb-ft of torque, respectively – well within the capabilities of the 9HP.

What remains to be seen is how the 9HP will be rolled out. We know ZF should start building 9HPs within its South Carolina plant in 2013 for Chrysler, but rumor has it Honda won’t start using the transmission until 2014. If so, the next-generation Acura TL, which is expected to launch in late 2013, could be one of the first vehicles to utilize the transmission.

Finally?

[Energy]

Its about time. Some of their cars still use 5 speed transmissions.

[AVS_Racing]

I wonder if this will fall apart like their older autos

[HondaGuy]

Some older gen honda transmission were subcontracted to GM since they never had to match v6 motors.

[ilvtofu]

Maybe DOHC V6 engines in their future too!

[roastpuff]

Originally Posted by AVS_Racing

I wonder if this will fall apart like their older autos

Nah, ZF makes very good transmission units unlike Honda...

[optiblue]

Give me a stick over any form of "auto"

[godwin]

GM makes a huge number of transmission since they also have shares in Getrag.

eg They have a hand in nearly all european longitudinal transmissions (except Mercedes).

Originally Posted by HondaGuy

Some older gen honda transmission were subcontracted to GM since they never had to match v6 motors.

[godwin]

The problem with 9 speeds in most stop and go traffic the 9th speed is practically useless.

ZF boggie was Mini / 500, so I can't see them pairing with anything more than 4cyl... at least in the near future.

[godwin]

still doesn't solve the problem of Honda making not so stellar transmissions. The reality is car manufacturers are turning into component integrators. It takes economy of scale to afford the R&D for the few percentage improvement in fuel economy.

Case in point, take a look at Subaru's transmissions.. they are stuck with CVT or 5 speed automatic for higher power just because there is no one else to share cost with them.

Originally Posted by optiblue

Give me a stick over any form of "auto"

[dink]

Originally Posted by ilvtofu

Maybe DOHC V6 engines in their future too!

Dont they have that in the nsx?

[THORISHERE]

I doubt this will happen. Honda has used their own in-house transmissions for as long as I can remember... and they've spent considerable resources developing their new 6 speed automatics which have just recently been adding to their cars (mostly Acura models + Honda Odyssey Touring). If history is indicative, these 6 speed transmissions will be with Honda for a very long time.

[GabAlmighty]

Auto...matic?

[Ludepower]

When I hear Honda and Transmission....