BorgWarner makes dual-clutch module for ZF transmission

Designed in Europe for high-performance sports cars and high-rev applications, the unit allows shifts in fractions of a second with no perceptible torque interruption.

BorgWarner has started production of a new dual-clutch module family to be featured in the latest transmission from ZF. Initially employed in the dual-clutch transmission for V6 and V8 biturbo petrol engines and a V8 biturbo diesel engine from major automakers, BorgWarner’s transmission technology is also expected to be used in upcoming hybrid applications. Specifically designed for high-performance sports cars, BorgWarner’s first European-built dual-clutch module family was developed and produced in Germany. It offers improved durability and reliability and contributes to enhanced shift feel.

“We are pleased to expand our business collaboration with ZF by supplying our state-of-the-art dual-clutch modules,” said Robin Kendrick, president and general manager, BorgWarner Transmission Systems. “BorgWarner drew upon its extensive expertise in engineering transmission components to develop a modular high-efficiency solution featuring a compact and low-weight design. As a result, our dual-clutch module is an ideal solution for sports cars and other high-torque and high-rev applications.”

BorgWarner’s innovative new dual-clutch module family is available with torque capacities of 570, 700 and 1,000 Nm and allows shifts within fractions of a second with no perceptible interruption of the power flow. The advanced solution also employs high-energy wet friction materials with a special groove design to minimize spin losses and provide improved heat resistance, high torque capacity and reliable operation over the transmission’s lifetime. In combination with its tunable launch characteristics, the dual-clutch module contributes to fuel economy comparable to single-clutch automated gearboxes and shift quality to rival the best conventional automatic transmissions.