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This paper describes the development of the GM Allison 10-Speed Heavy Duty (HD) Transmission. The trend of increased towing capacity and engine horsepower in the automotive heavy-duty truck segment has been steadily climbing for the past 10 years. The development of 10-Speed HD Transmission is designed to be best in class in for towing performance in the 2500/3500 series segment while optimizing fuel economy. The 10-Speed HD Transmission also gives the customers the option to order an integrated power take-off (PTO) unit that benefits downstream installation of utility accessories such as hydraulic pumps, generators, etc.

Aerodynamics of trucks and other high sided vehicles is of significant interest in reducing road side accidents due to wind loading and in improving fuel economy. Recognizing the limitations of conventional wind tunnel testing, considerable efforts have been invested in the last decade to study vehicle aerodynamics computationally. In this paper, a three-dimensional near field flow analysis has been performed for axial and cross wind loading to understand the airflow characteristics surrounding a truck-like bluff body. Results provide associated drag for the truck geometry including the exterior rearview mirror. Modifying truck geometry can reduce drag, improving fuel economy.