Refrigerated distribution truck fleet returns 24 percent average fuel consumption reduction thanks to fully automatic transmission

Comparison trial of automated manual and Allison fully automatic transmission-equipped Renault Premiums by French distribution group sees the Allison transmission returning an average of 8.5 l/100km fuel reduction (24 percent less) by using a smaller power-pack while ensuring optimum productivity.

HANNOVER, GERMANY— A 12 month trial by STAF Transports, the leading refrigerated food distribution group in Paris, France, has shown great fuel efficiency in refrigerated trucks equipped with Allison fully automatic transmissions. STAF Transports operates a fleet of more than 350 vehicles and supplies major supermarkets in Paris along with many other stores. Since 2008, as part of its plan to renew the distribution fleet, STAF Transport introduced Allison’s 3000 Series in the 19 tonne vehicle range. They now have 20 trucks equipped with Allison’s 3000 Series transmission, including five Renault Premium trucks purchased last year. Originally, the choice of Mr. Kara Mendjel, CEO of STAF Transports, had been driven by the proven reliability of an Allison fully automatic transmission in other severe applications across France. Between June 2009 and 2010, the Allison equipped vehicles operated alongside Renault Premiums fitted with automated manual transmissions (AMTs). Data on fuel consumption and productivity (payload) was collected electronically. Because of the inherently superior efficiency delivered by torque converter and powershifts, the Allison-equipped trucks are powered with a 320hp Dxi7 engine, an engine four litres smaller than the 370hp Dxi11 used in the rest of the fleet fitted with AMT gearboxes. The comparison tests executed on the daily actual duty cycles around Paris resulted in an average fuel consumption of 28 l/100km for the Allison versus 36.4 l/100km for the AMT, without sacrificing productivity or performance. The use of a lighter power-pack in the Allison-equipped vehicle contributed 17 percent to the total fuel savings, while an additional seven percent has been achieved implementing the latest Allison optimisation package including Load Based Shift Scheduling (LBSS) technology. Allison’s LBSS automatically selects between economy and performance shift schedules based on the actual vehicle payload and route topography. “The savings we have seen over the test period amount to an impressive 8.5 l/100 km in favour of the Allison,” says Kara Mendjel. “The trucks that we have fitted with Allison automatics not only deliver superior fuel economy when compared to trucks we have with automated manual transmissions, but maintain or even improve productivity when it comes to payload transported.” “Allison transmissions are perfect for the needs of the urban distribution market,” says Manlio Alvaro, Allison’s European Marketing Manager. “This example shows a valuable way to interpret fuel efficiency. Mating an Allison transmission to smaller, more affordable and economical engines can return better productivity while reducing emissions and lowering fuel costs.” The fleet also benefits from other advantages of using an Allison fully automatic transmission. With both hands on the wheel, drivers can concentrate on negotiating congested urban areas to meet strict deadlines, and the transmission’s smooth, quiet operation is appreciated for deliveries at all times of the day and night in built-up areas. Equally important to an efficient logistics operation is the reliability and durability of an Allison transmission. For example, breakdown of a refrigerated transport vehicle can mean the loss of goods within the hour. About Allison Transmission, Inc. Allison Transmission, Inc. (Allison) is the premier global provider of commercial duty automatic transmissions and hybrid propulsion systems. Allison products are specified by over 250 of the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers and are used in many market sectors including bus, refuse, fire, construction, distribution, military and specialty applications. Founded in 1915, the Allison business is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.A. and employs approximately 3,000 people. Regional headquarters with dedicated support staff are located in China, The Netherlands, Brazil, India and Japan. With a global presence in 80 countries, Allison has over 1,550 distributor and dealer locations. More information about Allison is available at www.allisontransmission.com. ### Press enquiries Claire Dumbreck, Propel Technology, Bloxham Mill, Barford Road, Bloxham, Banbury, Oxfordshire, UK, OX15 4FF. +44 (0)1295 724130 / +44 (0) 7768 773857 claire@propel-technology.com Miranda Jansen, Allison Transmission Europe B.V. Marketing Communications, Baanhoek 188, 3361GN Sliedrecht - The Netherlands , Tel: +31 78-6422 174, miranda.jansen@allisontransmission.com

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