KALAMAZOO, Mich. … The new Linehaul Series of UltraShift PLUS automated transmissions from diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton Corporation have been designed to provide operators with the ideal combination of fuel efficiency, driving ease and performance.

The new fully automated transmissions, available in both overdrive and direct-drive models, feature new automated clutch technology and intelligent shift selection software that employs grade sensing, weight computation, and driver throttle commands to make intelligent shift decisions for efficient, safe and profitable vehicle performance.

The new Linehaul Active Shifting (LAS) UltraShift PLUS transmissions, which represent a wide range of new customized transmission designs with different ratio sets and custom-designed shift calibrations in the software, feature enhanced low-speed maneuverability for docking and backing into trailers.  These transmissions also feature Hill Start Aid, which prevents rolling while on steep grades. This allows all drivers to have a controlled launch – knowing that the truck won’t roll back.

Driver-friendly operating modes include Drive, Reverse, Manual and Low.  Torque capacities on the linehaul series models range from 1450 to 1850 lb- ft.  LAS models feature 10 forward and 2 reverse speeds

“This is the perfect transmission for fleets and independent operators looking for top-of-the-line performance with no sacrifice to fuel economy,” said Michael Holahan, Eaton’s program manager for the UltraShift PLUS family.  “The transmissions have also been designed to make every driver in the fleet your best driver.  The shift decisions, which are based on grade, weight, engine-torque and throttle position, are always where you would want them to be.”

Dudley Baldwin, president of Baldwin Distribution Services in Amarillo, Texas, has already stamped his approval on the new transmissions.  “The new UltraShift Plus transmission in our fleet has been doing a very good job for us,” said Baldwin.  “Our drivers love it, the performance has been good, and we have been getting great fuel mileage.”  Founded in 1981, Baldwin Distribution is a longhaul, refrigerated carrier with a total of 131 vehicles.

The new UltraShift PLUS Linehaul Series of transmissions will soon be available for limited quantity release for all makes and models of heavy trucks manufactured in North America.  Full production is expected to begin in 2010. 

For more information on Eaton transmissions and other Roadranger products and services, visit www.roadranger.com , where the latest product information is available, as well as service, parts and training assistance, 24 hours a day. Experts are available in the Roadranger Call Center by dialing 1-800-826-HELP (4357) in the U.S. and Canada.  In Mexico, dial 01-800-826-4357.

Roadranger® is a marketing alliance of Dana Holding Corporation, Eaton Corporation and other trusted partners, providing a complete line of drivetrain components, systems, lubricants, safety products and service tools, including manual and automatic transmissions, hybrid power systems, clutches, driveshafts, steer and drive axles, brakes, tire pressure management systems and collision warning systems with adaptive cruise control.  Truck makers, dealers, owners and service providers are supported by the Roadranger support team – providing specification assistance, training, service, parts and warranty expertise throughout North America.

Eaton Corporation is a diversified power management company with 2008 sales of $15.4 billion. Eaton is a global technology leader in electrical components and systems for power quality, distribution and control; hydraulics components, systems and services for industrial and mobile equipment; aerospace fuel, hydraulics and pneumatic systems for commercial and military use; and truck and automotive drivetrain and powertrain systems for performance, fuel economy and safety. Eaton has approximately 75,000 employees and sells products to customers in more than 150 countries. For more information, visit www.eaton.com .