KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Idealease has given the nod to the Eaton Fuller UltraShift HV (Highway Value) automated transmission as the preferred specification for all future North American medium-duty transactions.

According to Wade Lucas, vice president - service and equipment for Idealease, the decision was made because of the significant fuel savings advantages the UltraShift HV achieves when compared to competitive automatic transmissions.

“The UltraShift HV transmission is good for our customers, so it is certainly good for us,” said Lucas. “Everyone wants the best possible fuel efficiency and that is what the HV gives you.”

Eaton confirmed recent tests conducted by an independent firm in accordance with SAE J1526 Joint TMC/SAE Fuel Consumption In-Service Test Procedure, Type III, measured the UltraShift HV transmission against a conventional automatic transmission and determined the UltraShift HV transmission delivered fuel economy savings of up to 19%.

The UltraShift HV is a fully automated transmission system for Class 6 and 7 vehicles with diesel engines in the 195 to 260 horsepower range. The HV is capable of handling torque capacities up to 660 pounds per foot and loads up to 33,000 pounds gross vehicle weight.