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7.4.2005
New Tecshift Transmission: More Comfort and Lower Consumption

Following the Movano, Opel now also offers the Tecshift automated six-speed transmission as an option with the Vivaro. Tecshift combines the advantages of manual and automatic transmissions. It permits a reduction in fuel consumption of up to 10 percent compared to standard manual transmissions, while offering more comfort. The driver can switch between manual and automatic operation at any time.

 Tecshift is available as an option for all model variants in the Vivaro range in conjunction with the 2.5-liter common-rail turbo-diesel engine with 99 kW/135 hp and, for the Movano, with the 2.5 CDTI units with 73 kW/99 hp or 84 kw/114 hp.

Tecshift is based on the manual six-speed transmission, but without the need for a clutch pedal. This function is taken over by clever electro-hydraulics. Gears are changed with the help of electrical control motors. Both of these are controlled by a powerful computer. Parameters used for optimal gear changing are driving speed, position of the gas pedal, acceleration and deceleration, engine speed, coolant temperature, road gradient (climb or descent) as well as vehicle load. The adaptive system takes into account individual driving style, using speed measurements from the gas and brake pedal movements. This detailed information base has further advantages: a dynamic kickdown function in automatic mode allows particularly rapid gear change during heavy acceleration, while a series of functions also help avoid any system operating errors.

In addition to the automatic and manual gear modes, Tecshift offers three more programs for increased comfort and safety:

  • Start-up and parking assist facilitates parking maneuvers and hill starts. In first, second and reverse gear, the vehicle moves at very slow speed in the chosen direction after the brake pedal is released.
  • At the touch of a button, the driver can activate heavy-load or trailer functions in both transmission modes. This facilitates starting with a heavy load by reducing clutch slippage and timing gear changes to allow maximum driving power at high engine speeds.
  • Finally, there is also a winter option, which reduces wheel spin of the drive wheels and helps during start-up on slippery surfaces.