Fully Automatic Transmissions for Airport Vehicles

Kayseri Metropolitan Municipality takes delivery of its first 16 TCV CNG buses equipped with Allison fully automatic transmissions

Compressed natural gas (CNG) engines are gaining momentum worldwide due to reduced harmful gas emissions and lower fuel costs.  Domestically-owned bus manufacturer, TCV, is promoting the development of CNG applications and technology in Turkey, and Kayseri Metropolitan Municipality recently took delivery of its first 12-meter Karat CNG buses equipped with Allison fully automatic transmissions.

Kayseri is located in the heart of Anatolia, one of fastest-growing cities in Turkey, and now the seventh largest by population. With substantially increased traffic, the city has been investing in projects that reduce dependence on cars, encourage public transportation and develop environmentally-friendly solutions. Kayseri studies show that CNG buses are becoming the preferred public transportation option, fulfilling all requirements of a rapid, environmentally-friendly, economic, comfortable and safe transportation system.

According to Ä°lker Yılmaz, TCV’s General Coordinator, Kayseri Metropolitan Municipality is a pioneer, understanding that the key to public transportation is a focus on people. “In regards to urban transportation, environmentally-friendly solutions like CNG buses show respect for human beings and the environment. Our Allison-equipped Karat CNG buses provide up to 50 percent fewer fuel emissions when compared to diesel alternatives and ensure excellent performance. That means that our Karat bus offers both greener technology, as well as a more economical option for operators and passengers.”

The 12-meter Karat power-pack consists of a MAN 206 kW CNG engine and an Allison T310R fully automatic transmission. Allison’s Continuous Power Technology™ delivers seamless, uninterrupted engine power to the drive wheels and smooth vehicle acceleration. Unlike manual or automated manual transmissions, Allison Automatics use a torque converter in place of a dry clutch. Ensuring engine torque multiplication at vehicle launch and reducing driveline shock, this advanced technology offers a great advantage in frequent stop and go applications, such as urban bus routes.

“Equipping all of our Karat CNG buses with Allison transmissions allows us to best meet the efficiency and savings expectations of our customers,” Yılmaz said. “While an Allison transmission provides safety, comfort and ease of driving, it also reduces maintenance costs and fuel consumption. Additionally, the compact structure, lightness and component modularity, provide considerable advantages during drivetrain installation – an element of differentiation within a competitive market,” he concluded.