Allison has Japanese bus success
Allison’s T 280 fully automatic transmission has been selected as the standard transmission for new medium-sized city buses manufactured by J-Bus of Japan. J-Bus is a joint venture between Isuzu Motors and Hino Motors, which designs and manufactures bus bodies for both companies.
Allison automatic transmissions are currently installed in more than 10,000 large city buses in Japan, representing a 75% share of the market. The Allison T 280 six-speed automatic transmission, installed primarily in large city buses, has been optimised for medium-sized city buses with both bus models fully compliant with the 2015 heavy-duty fuel efficiency standards. One of the key features enabling compliance has been the deployment of a “momentary switch” in the buses’ Idling Stop/Start System (ISS) which is designed to improve fuel efficiency. This device engages the ISS system when the engine restarts. Even if the driver switches off the engine with the ISS deactivated and then restarts it, the ISS is automatically re-activated when the key is turned.
Allison’s Torqmatic SeriesTM automatic transmissions are highly rated for the smooth and powerful launch they deliver, thanks to the torque multiplication from the torque converter, even on small displacement engines. Allison’s Continuous Power Technology transmits torque to the wheels without any interruption, which should lead to smooth gear changes.
When the driver stops the bus and the middle door opens for passengers to exit or board, the transmission power-disconnect feature of the Allison T 280 is activated and the gear is automatically switched to neutral. This prevents vehicle creep and ensures the safety of passengers getting on and off the bus. When the bus is ready to move and the middle door is closed, the release of the driver’s foot from the brake pedal automatically engages the transmission, allowing the vehicle to start smoothly.
In addition, a prognostic function (a feature of all Allison automatic transmissions) monitors the status of the transmission fluid, its level and filter life. It displays various indicators and warnings. This includes recommended transmission fluid and filter replacement timings on the shift selector, reducing the risk of unexpected trouble.