Auburn’s Innovative Transmission Pioneered Six Forward Speeds
In 1932, Auburn, a manufacturer based in Indiana, became the first to offer a vehicle equipped with six forward gears, alongside a reverse gear utilizing a double-ratio transmission. The gearbox itself was a three-speed unit, but its functionality was expanded through an active linkage system incorporating vacuum. This system allowed for operation of a planetary gear set within the rear differential.
Drivers could select between two distinct ranges by manipulating a lever located on the dashboard. This system operated effectively at speeds below 64 kilometers per hour. The Auburn’s design represented a significant advancement in automotive transmission technology.
While the Auburn’s six-speed transmission was a groundbreaking achievement, it’s widely recognized that the Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale, introduced in 1967, was the first road car to feature six distinct forward speeds. Homologated based on the racing car Tipo 33, production was limited to just 18 examples. This Italian sports car showcased the potential of advanced transmission designs, solidifying the six-speed configuration as a notable development in automotive engineering.
The system utilized a complex transmission to achieve these speeds.
Topics: #six #transmission #speeds
