Detroit builds 500,000th axle, releases transmission video

Sept. 6, 2013

Detroit has built its 500,000th Detroit steer axle, the company announced. Also announced was a new driver video on how to effectively operate the DT12 transmission.

Produced at Detroit’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Redford, MI, the axle line includes steer axles with weight ratings up to 20,000 lbs., rear axles with weight ratings up to 23,000 lbs., and tandem rear axles with weight ratings up to 46,000 lbs. The Detroit axles are a key component of the overall Detroit powertrain offerings, the company said, which includes the DT12 automated manual transmission and Detroit engines.

“The Detroit powertrain provides the quality engineering, durability and performance enhancements that our customers expect,” said Brad Williamson, manager, engine and component marketing for Daimler Trucks North America. “We’re proud of reaching this milestone, and we’re even prouder to continue helping our customers achieve a lower total cost of ownership by producing the highest-quality axle every time.”
The new driver training video for its DT12 automated manual transmission is now available at www.DemandDetroit.com.

The video will assist drivers in operating the DT12 effectively from the start, the company said, and teaches them to take full advantage of all of the transmission’s features to achieve maximum performance and fuel economy from their Detroit powertrain.

The video will highlight functions and features of the DT12 such as eCoast, Active Driveline Protection, and more. The video also demonstrates true two-pedal operation with an integrated stalk mounted shifter that controls gear selection, engine brakes, driving modes and manual shifting. 

Tips on selecting the right driving modes based on terrain and application are also included.

“The DT12 is easy to adapt to and, with the simple instruction provided in the video, will provide a better driving experience,” said Williamson. “The DT12 helps drivers achieve optimum fuel economy with minimal effort compared to operating a manual or automatic transmission.”

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