Dana Opens 16th Global Technology Center near Austin, Texas
Developed through a strategic licensing relationship between
In order to ensure that VariGlide technology meets Dana's high standards for performance and durability, the state-of-the-art facility includes engineering stations, a testing lab with a vehicle dynamometer, prototype assembly, a metallurgical and metrology lab, and a machine shop.
Two new U.S. patents associated with the VariGlide technology already have been awarded to Dana as a result of the collaborative work between engineers at
"Dana's century-long commitment to making vehicles perform better, smarter, and more efficiently is the result of our tireless dedication to pushing the frontiers of drivetrain technologies," said
The Cedar Park Technology Center is one of three new research and development centers that Dana has opened in the past 24 months. In 2013, the company launched a comprehensive technical center in Wuxi,
Dana is developing VariGlide concepts for the light-vehicle market by incorporating the technology into the existing packaging space of a standard automatic transmission. This configuration serves as an enhanced alternative to dual clutch and conventional CVTs, supplying fuel savings, improved NVH, smoother shifting, high performance, and responsive engine operation.
In the off-highway market, VariGlide technology can replace the torque converter in certain transmission configurations to decouple engine speed from the vehicle's travel or working speed. Ideal for the rapid acceleration, deceleration, and precise positioning required by material-handling applications, it also eliminates the need for forward and reverse clutches while decreasing overall engine speeds – allowing the engine to operate at its optimum efficiency level and reduce noise levels.
VariGlide technology will be offered as a pre-assembled module providing a standard infinitely variable transmission (IVT) configuration for forklift truck transmissions produced by original-equipment manufacturers. Dana will also implement VariGlide technology in a premium configuration optimized to supply further fuel efficiency and productivity gains in select Spicer® transmissions.
For more information about the VariGlide concept, visit www.variglide.com.
About
Dana is a global leader in the supply of highly engineered driveline, sealing, and thermal-management technologies that improve the efficiency and performance of vehicles with both conventional and alternative-energy powertrains. Serving three primary markets – passenger vehicle, commercial truck, and off-highway equipment – Dana provides the world's original-equipment manufacturers and the aftermarket with local product and service support through a network of nearly 100 engineering, manufacturing, and distribution facilities. Founded in 1904 and based in Maumee,
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SOURCE
Jeff Cole, +1-419-887-3535, jeff.cole@dana.com