Antonov’s new automatic transmission system is making waves in the automobile industry

Antonov, a vehicle technology company specialising in the development of automatic transmission systems signed an agreement with Chongqing Loncin Export and Import Co, one of China’s largest motorcycle and engine manufacturers, to work together to set up an automatic transmission manufacturing plant in Chong Qing. Antonov has thus secured its first customer in China for its new TX6 six-speed automatic transmission system.

Following the recent demonstration of its technology in Chong Qing, Antonov has now received a formal request from Lifan Motors to install the transmission in its mid-sized sedans from late 2010. The transmission, as fitted to a 1.6-litre demo vehicle, was driven by seven carmakers who were impressed with its performance. Mr Gao, chairman of Chong Qing Loncin Industrial Group, commented: “The shifting quality is great — I don’t believe it’s just a demonstrator.”

The vehicle is currently at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, which will support demonstrations to five other potential customers. These include Geely Automobile, the first independent automobile manufacturer in China, which has expressed strong interest in the technology with its efficiency having been proven.

The six-speed automatic transmission is based on new kinematics (motion of the gears) and structural design, using a combination of planetary gears instead of an efficiency sapping torque converter. It’s low on cost, weight and size, whilst improving mechanical efficiency.

The transmission also uses components similar to those of current production automatics, offering low development costs. Worldwide patents protect the product.