#China #BorgWarner #Auburn Hills #Motorcycle #DCT Technology

BorgWarner Secures a New Motorcycle Dual-Clutch Transmission Program

BorgWarner, a leader in powertrain technologies, recently announced an exciting development in the motorcycle segment as it has secured a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) program with a prominent motorcycle manufacturer in China. The company plans to commence production of this advanced system in the third quarter of 2027. This initiative marks a pivotal moment for BorgWarner as it transitions from a traditional component supplier to a systems solution provider.

The new DCT program specifically caters to two-wheeled motorcycles and four-wheeled vehicles equipped with engines larger than 500 cc. At its core, the program encompasses a cohesive package that includes not just dual clutches but also hydraulic control modules and sophisticated clutch control software. This multifaceted supply will undoubtedly enhance the riding experience while contributing to greater performance and fuel efficiency.

As the motorcycle industry evolves, there is a marked shift towards automatic transmission technologies. The DCT system—compared to traditional automated manual transmission (AMT) and continuously variable transmission (CVT) technologies—stands out due to its ability to facilitate smoother gear shifts and achieve higher transmission efficiency, making it ideally suited for larger performance-focused motorcycles.

Henk Vanthournout, BorgWarner's Vice President, emphasized the importance of drawing from passenger car transmission technology to inform innovations in motorcycle automatic transmissions. He expressed confidence that the motorcycle market will continue to welcome automatic transmission technology, further bolstering BorgWarner's reputation as an expert in DCT. Vanthournout noted, "With our proven DCT expertise and systems integration capabilities, BorgWarner is well-positioned to support our Chinese motorcycle customer in transitioning to production and enhancing the automatic transmission landscape for motorcycles."

BorgWarner's track record speaks volumes, having delivered nearly 10 million DCT units for passenger cars. This rich history of engineering mastery and robust manufacturing capability is a solid foundation for the company as it strides into the motorcycle domain with a dedicated motorcycle DCT system. The anticipated benefits of this system promise to improve not merely rider satisfaction but also fuel economy, reflecting a growing focus on sustainability in the automotive sector.

Moreover, this latest endeavor showcases BorgWarner's evolution into a system-level solutions provider. By marrying hardware competencies with advanced software technologies, the company is committed to facilitating growth for its customers in China and supporting their expansion into other significant markets, including Europe and North America.

In conclusion, the journey ahead looks promising for BorgWarner and its new DCT program. As the motorcycle industry gears up for a future dominated by automatic transmissions, BorgWarner is not just keeping pace but is at the forefront of this exhilarating transformation. With an unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation, the company is poised to help shape a healthier, cleaner, and safer future for motorized mobility.

As the launch date for the DCT program approaches, all eyes will be on BorgWarner as it uncovers more details about this pivotal program, anticipated to redefine motorcycling experiences and capabilities in the coming years.