TransAm Trucking has spec’d Eaton Corp.’s UltraShift Plus Linehaul Active Shifting (LAS) 10-spd. automated transmission for a new truck order, Eaton announced. TransAm will install the transmissions in 1,000 new Kenworth T680 tractors. The value of the order was not disclosed.
“We have been 100% Eaton automation for more than 10 years,” said Russ McElliott, president of TransAm Trucking. “The support that we have received from Eaton during that period has kept us coming back. We’re looking forward to similar support with this next order of UltraShift Plus transmissions, which we believe are the best automated transmissions in the market.”
The UltraShift Plus transmissions will have a torque rating of 1,650 lbs.-ft. and will be delivered over the next three years, Eaton said.
“The TransAm order demonstrates the growing interest and confidence among trucking fleets in North America with our newest generation of automated transmissions,” said Ken Davis, president of Eaton’s Vehicle Group. “TransAm is a leader in implementing technologies that enhance fuel economy and performance, and we are very excited with their choice of transmission on this significant new truck order.”
TransAm is a temperature-controlled carrier serving all of the U.S. east of the Rocky Mountains and Southern California, with roughly 1,400 tractors and 2,400 trailers.
UltraShift Plus transmissions feature shift selection software that employs grade sensing, weight computation and driver throttle commands to make intelligent shift decisions for efficient and profitable vehicle performance, Eaton said. They also include a Hill Start Aid feature to prevent rollbacks on grades; an oil level sight glass to easily check fluid levels; six- and eight-bolt PTO availability at no extra cost; and automatic, manual and low mode selections; as well as a creep feature for significantly improved maneuverability with continuous low-speed control.
