GAC Trumpchi own brand vehicles to be equipped with Fiat developed transmissions

Gasgoo.com (Shanghai August 23) - Cooperation between Guangzhou Automobile Group and Italian manufacturer Fiat is becoming increasingly closer. According to a report appearing on Economic Observer News, GAC General Manager Wu Song confirmed that the independent engine technology that his company is currently working on will be used in future models from the upcoming Guangqi Fiat joint venture. Meanwhile, Fiat will bring over its unique Dual Dry Clutch Transmission technology to GAC's own brand Trumpchi passenger automobiles.

Currently, GAC's Trumpchi and Trumpchi GS5 both use five-speed automatic transmissions made by Japanese auto part manufacturer Aisin Seiki. Although the transmission technology is stable, it brings nothing new to the table, as the exact same gearbox is available in several other vehicles available in China. Prior to news of the deal with Fiat, GAC officials previously stated that they would be bringing over Aisin Seiki's six-speed automatic transmission to the Trumpchi brand. However, GAC officials point out that Fiat's DDCT transmissions will aid in improving the own brand vehicles' engine efficiency and marketability,

On the other side of things, the turbocharged 1.8 L motors powering Fiat's luxury Alfa-Romeo cars is currently being produced at GAC's engine factory. The same engines are already used in both Trumpchi vehicles. Mr. Wu confirmed that GAC will continue to manufacture large-displacement engines for Fiat.

The Guangqi Fiat joint venture has made significant progress, with news in June that construction work on its jointly-owned factory in Changsha, Hunan has been completed. Production of its first vehicle, the Fiat Viaggio, has already begun. The Viaggio is scheduled to make its market debut in September. The JV has plans to release at least one new model a year.