Detroit Diesel Corporation has started production of the components that make up the new integrated Detroit Powertrain. The integrated Detroit Powertrain is on view at the 2015 Mid-America Trucking Show (Detroit booth #30155).
The integrated Detroit Powertrain features the Detroit DD15 engine with a new downspeed rating, a Detroit DT12 automated manual direct drive transmission and Intelligent Powertrain Management, and Detroit front and rear axles.
“We are the only OEM that can provide this level of fully integrated powertrain package with state-of-the-art component communications that seamlessly work together,” says Brad Williamson, Powertrain Marketing Manager, Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA). “Every component has been designed to work together as an integrated system to provide our customers with the performance they need and the efficiency they demand.”
Detroit DD15 Engine
Rated at 400 hp and 1,750 lbs.-ft. of torque, the downsped DD15 engine shifts the usable torque range to lower engine speeds to reduce friction losses enhancing fuel consumption and improving reliability while allowing vehicles to be geared for lower engine rpms. The new six-blade cooling fan design also draws less power, so the engine doesn’t burn as much fuel. The proprietary Detroit Virtual Technician On Board Diagnostic System is also part of the integrated Powertrain solution. The DD15 features the 1-Box emissions package, and meets OBD13 and GHG14 standards.
Detroit DT12 Automated Manual Transmission
The DT12 automated manual transmission, with the powerful new Intelligent Powertrain Management (IPM), uses pre-loaded terrain maps and GPS to know the route ahead and automatically adjust transmission and engine function for a smooth and efficient ride. Mixed idle operation allows for 560 rpm creep mode operation to improve low speed maneuverability and 500 rpm for reduced fuel consumption during eCoast events. The 12 speeds and small step gearing combined with the efficiency of a direct drive top gear also leads toward its effective performance.
Detroit Tandem and Steer Axles
Detroit now offers a 6x2 configuration with a 2.28 ratio that is specifically designed to work with the downsped engine rating, making it the fastest ratio available in Freightliner and Western Star trucks. The 6x2 Detroit axle configuration incorporates a non-driven tag axle on the tandem, reducing total weight by almost 400 lbs., while a new 2.41 ratio in its 6x4 axle configuration is also available for applications requiring additional traction.
The integrated Detroit Powertrain is available in the Freightliner Cascadia Evolution and the Western Star 5700XE.
