Stellantis has announced plans to retool three plants in Kokomo, Indiana to produce electrified eight-speed transmissions at a cost of $229 million.
These “multi-tool” transmissions can be paired with ICE, mild hybrid, or plug-in hybrid systems. Stellantis reckons the transmissions will also improve fuel economy, provide pure-electric, and help vehicles meet future emissions targets. These new transmissions will be used across the Jeep, Ram, Chrysler, and Dodge brands.
The new transmissions will also share a lot of common parts within the different versions – transmission gear train/clutches, mechatronics, mechanical pumps, and E-pump motors will all be shared.
Likewise, the new transmissions will also be flexible enough to accommodate unique parts to adapt to various electrification options. The eMotor, torque converter, and power electronics can all be used in EVs.
The news is also good for local Indianans working in the area with the new retooled plants retaining 662 jobs in the area. The retooling announcement was made by Stellantis’ Head of Powertrain Operations Brad Clark during an event at the Kokomo Transmission Plant – Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb, Kokomo Mayor Tyler Moore, and UAW Region 2B Director Wayne Blanchard were also in attendance.
“This investment and this transmission represent an important stepping stone in getting us to 2030 and further expanding our battery-electric offerings,” says Clark.
“This new eight-speed is the ‘multi-tool’ of transmissions. It is a versatile transmission that can be adapted for a variety of applications, allowing us the flexibility to adjust our production as consumer demand for electrified vehicles grows over the next decade. It also offers consumers the opportunity to get familiar with this technology and explore all of the benefits that can come from electrification.”
Stellantis is investing heavily in the Kokomo, IN area. Last March, the company set aside $400 million to convert Indiana Transmission Plant II to the Kokomo Engine Plant to produce the GMET4 engine, the company’s 2.0-litre Global Medium Engine inline four-cylinder turbo – it’s expected to go into production later this year.
“As our industry continues to change, our focus must continue to be on our most valuable asset – our people,” said Clark. “This transmission program will bring new opportunities for our current workforce, as well as the manufacturing workforce of the future.”
Keyword: Stellantis Announces New Electrified Transmissions with $229 Million Indiana Investment