BMW 6-Speed Automatic Uses BorgWarner Friction

The world’s first 6-speed automatic transmission for cars uses exclusively BorgWarner wet friction clutch plates.
The 6HP26, developed by ZF for the 2002 BMW 7 series, uses the wet friction clutch plates to enhance the transmission’s “feel” and shift quality.
BorgWarner incorporates an all-new friction material for this application that is a very high-energy capacity material designed to withstand more demanding operating conditions.
In combination with BMW’s updated 4.4 liter V8 engine, the ZF 6HP26 transmission helps the 2002 745i deliver 14% better fuel economy and stronger acceleration than last year’s model. Yet, it is mechanically simpler, lighter, and more space efficient than the 5-speed transmission it replaces.
BorgWarner’s friction products for the 6-speed include friction plates and a continuous slipping converter clutch. The products are made by BorgWarner Transmission Systems’ German operation in Heidelberg.
BorgWarner will supply content for an estimated 100,000 of the 6-speed transmission units in 2002, with the potential for more than 300,000 units by 2005.
“The ZF 6HP26 is probably the most demanding application of our shift quality products in a conventional automatic transmission in terms of power and torque density,” said Bob Welding, president, BorgWarner Transmission Systems. “We’re pleased that ZF chose BorgWarner as its wet friction technology partner for this innovative application.”