AMT technology on small commercial vehicles soon

So far only Ashok Leyland has launched an AMT-enabled vehicle

After witnessing robust success with small passenger cars, small commercial vehicles such as the Tata Ace are slated to get automated manual transmission (AMT) soon. 

Tata Motors has given the mandate to Wabco, the vehicle management systems provider, for supplying AMT kits. So far no commercial vehicle manufacturer, with the exception of Chennai-based Ashok Leyland, has launched an AMT-enabled vehicle.

So far AMTs are available with Maruti Suzuki Celerio and Alto. Tata Motors too has the Zest sedan running on AMT. Progressively, manufacturers expect one out of every two cars sold in India to have AMT.

AMTs built by Wabco will have pneumatics rather than hydraulics seen in passenger cars. Last year, Ashok Leyland launched the Boss light truck with AMT which eliminates the need for clutch operation while shifting gear.

P Kaniappan, managing director, Wabco India said, "AMTs will lead to a direct 5% improvement in fuel economy. This will enhance driving experience since there is no use of clutch."