Mercedes-Benz to develop a 9-speed automatic.

2010 Mercedes Benz E350 Convertible 7speed auto

2010 Mercedes Benz E350 Convertible with 7speed automatic

Mercedes Benz is planning to develop a 9-speed automatic gearbox for their large-capacity engines. According to senior engineering sources, the gearbox will help improve fuel economy and reduce CO2 emissions. We at Indiancarsbikes recently tested the F10 BMW 525d which had a 8-speed automatic mated to a 205bhp inline 6. Now, 8-speeds initially seem a bit unnecessary. But, trust me it works. I wonder how much more improvement can be achieved as far as fuel efficiency is concerned. 10kpl is what we could manage from the 6 cylinder diesel over a mixed cycle.

Obviously, Mercedes needs to address the issue of fuel efficiency in their cars that are powered by thirsty V8′s and insane bi-turbo V12′s. I appreciate their effort to reduce CO2 emissions and cut-down fuel consumption. However, only time will tell if the 9-speed auto box can tame the beasts. Mercedes say, that 9 ratios is the maximum that is technically possible, as well as being the most that customers will be able to cope with.

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