Honda has submitted paperwork to the Japan Patent Office to put their stamp on a novel new transmission that has 11 forward ratios and uses three clutches to shift between them.
To the established norm of vehicle gearboxes, that’s perhaps one to a few too many of some things. And we’ll probably have to wait for the Japanese automaker to reveal their full plans officially before we have any clear idea what they have in store or what car they feel would require it.
The report stems from AutoGuide, who spotted the filing which cites a reduction in torque loss during shifts that is experienced with dual-clutch transmissions, allowing a less change in speed when rowing up or down the gears and faster acceleration.
We have some questions as to which dual-clutch transmissions have such appalling torque dips during shifts as most modern evolutions are crushingly smooth and efficient in their operation. Still, perhaps more ratios and another clutch will only improve the situation. Enough for them to transition away from their penchant for CVTs?
It’s also possible that this new transmission could have benefits in racing, particularly concerning the third clutch where the most fractional of improved shift times can amount to a markedly improved lap time. The 11 ratios, however, is clearly aimed at improving fuel economy for passenger cars, enabling a lower engine speed during low load situations such as highway cruising.
Last year, Ford had applied for a patent to build an 11-speed transmission, but has since remained quiet about making that a production reality. Increasing the number ratios, for that matter, isn’t anything new, and Honda constructs their new NSX with a nine-speed dual-clutch shifter.
Apart from that, ZF currently manufactures a 9-speed torque converter automatic that is being used in cars by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Mercedes-Benz also uses a 9-speed auto many of their cars, and more recently a 10-speed auto box - co-developed by GM and Ford - will be fitted to cars such as the F-150 and Camaro ZL1.
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