Do you want a ZL1 automatic transmission option?

[Fat_Nick]

Originally Posted by GoldenBear

I'm curious as to how many people will actually buy an automatic ZL1, as opposed to how many people indicated that they would like an automatic to be available for those who actually will buy it.

^this.

Originally Posted by GoldenBear

I will buy a manual ZL1, but I think Chevrolet should offer an automatic for those who want one, if it doesn't make the car more difficult to manufacture or more expensive to produce.

Really how much harder would it be for them to remove the man pedal and drop in an
6L80E?

[GoldenBear]

Originally Posted by GoldenBear

I will buy a manual ZL1, but I think Chevrolet should offer an automatic for those who want one, if it doesn't make the car more difficult to manufacture or more expensive to produce.

Originally Posted by Fat_Nick

Really how much harder would it be for them to remove the man pedal and drop in an 6L80E?

The cost is of adding an automatic transmission to the option list of the ZL1 is not only limited to the differences required in the actual assembly process of the vehicle, but also includes the additional cost of testing and validating the automatic transmission for use in the vehicle.

Any time another item is added to the option list, the testing and validation process becomes more complex, more expensive, and more time consuming.

[radz28]

Originally Posted by Fat_Nick

^this.




Really how much harder would it be for them to remove the man pedal and drop in an
6L80E?

They wouldn't stick a 6L80 in there - it'd be a 6L90 (90). Even then, I'm not so sure, because since it's my opinion ZL1 will have power closer to 600, when released, and the 90 is so close (in terms of max' power/torque capacity) to it's apparent limits, that GM might not be able to stick a slushbox in ZL1. I just don't see them building a upgraded 90 for just one or two cars; the only transmission that goes along these lines, to me, were the 4L65/70, but those were spread across more vehicles, like the Trailblazer SS, if I remember correctly. I do expect to see bumps in power for CTS-V and ZR1 in the next few years, so maybe they will upgrade the 90. I've also read comments about how transmissions (and such) are rated, and there are more than a single factor, that plays into the ratings (i.e. weight of the vehicle, application, etc.), so I'm not sure the 90 couldn't handle what I believe ZL1 will become (I think it's going to come in less than 4100 lbs.).

I have nothing but speculation, however; nothing to back this up.

Originally Posted by GoldenBear

The cost is of adding an automatic transmission to the option list of the ZL1 is not only limited to the differences required in the actual assembly process of the vehicle, but also includes the additional cost of testing and validating the automatic transmission for use in the vehicle.

Any time another item is added to the option list, the testing and validation process becomes more complex, more expensive, and more time consuming.

While A6 ZL1s may be limited, I think there may be a chance of stealing sales from GT500 buyers who don't want to drive stick. While I don't know that there are many, I think there may be individuals, who aren't as brand-loyal as many of us are, that could go either way, depending on what car fits their needs better.

All I know is, is that it would be a tough choice for me

[FreddyG]

Originally Posted by GoldenBear

The cost is of adding an automatic transmission to the option list of the ZL1 is not only limited to the differences required in the actual assembly process of the vehicle, but also includes the additional cost of testing and validating the automatic transmission for use in the vehicle.

Any time another item is added to the option list, the testing and validation process becomes more complex, more expensive, and more time consuming.

The trans has already been tested in the CTS-V. It's the same motor and also, there are quite a few CTS-V' s out there putting out 600+ RWHP and not having any problems, so I can't see why this would be ay different. I could be wrong though.

Besides, even with the little bit of R&D that might be needed, they'll more than make that up in sales! Break even point will come quickly!

[OverZeaLouS]

Automated manual. Dual clutch transmission. (DCT)

[Mark H]

Everyone keep talking about having to validate the A6 and the associated costs.
Correct me if I'm wrong but the engine in the V6 wasn't validated until the second year and it gave the a bump in the HP

[Viral]

I think you're confusing two separate issues. SAE engine certification hasn't been brought up before as far as I know. The costs involved that I'm aware of have to do with both stocking the separate parts and retooling and configuring the assembly line to build both a manual and auto for a car that will be produced and sold in very limited numbers. People tend to point to super exotics with high tech auto transmissions, but how many assembly line made, limited production vehicles actually offer a CHOICE of transmissions? That, to me, is where the production costs outweigh the benefits.

[GoldenBear]

Originally Posted by FreddyG

The trans has already been tested in the CTS-V. It's the same motor and also, there are quite a few CTS-V' s out there putting out 600+ RWHP and not having any problems, so I can't see why this would be any different. I could be wrong though.

Besides, even with the little bit of R&D that might be needed, they'll more than make that up in sales! Break even point will come quickly!

Validating a transmission in one vehicle doesn't validate it for use in another vehicle with different suspension, gearing, weight, accessories, tires, etc. Validation must occur for each individual vehicle.

Originally Posted by Viral

I think you're confusing two separate issues. SAE engine certification hasn't been brought up before as far as I know. The costs involved that I'm aware of have to do with both stocking the separate parts and retooling and configuring the assembly line to build both a manual and auto for a car that will be produced and sold in very limited numbers. People tend to point to super exotics with high tech auto transmissions, but how many assembly line made, limited production vehicle actually offer a CHOICE of transmissions? That, to me, is where the costs no longer outweigh the benefits.

Correct. Validation is separate and apart from SAE certification. Validation means that the vehicle as equipped has been tested and validated to perform as designed under conditions it is expected incur as used by the customer over the vehicle's expected lifespan.

[a_Username]

Still nothing!!!

[alcal1084]

everybody needs to stop talking about the R&D of an auto trans. if GM can justify making a CTS-V wagon with all the R&D they had to do on that thing, then there is NO justifiable reason they cant have an auto trans in this car... further more while the CTS-V offers the auto there is no difference in price if you want it you can have it!!! now the ONLY reason for them to not offer the auto in this car is if they want it to be more like the GT500 or ZO6 and ZR1 but ultimately they made up there minds long before this thread was even thought of, and those of us sill waiting for an answer... lets just keep waiting!!!

[DevilKnightFalcon]

Originally Posted by a_Username

Still nothing!!!

I know it's brutal but trust me we will know soon.

[Ltespd]

alca1084...the ONLY reason for them to not offer the auto in this car is if they want it to be more like the GT500 or ZO6 and ZR1

Exactly! Thats why I've always thought we wouldn't see an auto.

[blufin]

I don't know if anyone has brought this up before, but If you check out this video and listen carefully around the 31-32 second mark, it sure sounds like this ZL1 has an automatic. IF this is the real audio from the real ZL1, then this should put this debate to rest. Did Gm accidentally tip their hand on this one?

[ShnOmac]

Originally Posted by blufin

I don't know if anyone has brought this up before, but If you check out this video and listen carefully around the 31-32 second mark, it sure sounds like this ZL1 has an automatic. IF this is the real audio from the real ZL1, then this should put this debate to rest. Did Gm accidentally tip their hand on this one?

First time I have seen that......

That was a pretty quick shift.....