Big shifts coming in powertrains

During the rest of this decade, many observers expect transmission controls to undergo more changes than in the past 10-15 years. Transmission controls are being revamped to meet tighter fuel economy laws, letting engines run at optimal speeds.

During the rest of this decade, many observers expect transmission controls to undergo more changes than in the past 10-15 years. They are being revamped to meet tighter fuel economy laws, letting engines run at optimal speeds.

Transmissions are coming into focus after a period when engine controls were redesigned to meet tighter emissions standards. They are now being transformed to provide more gears and shift more to improve vehicle efficiency.