Technology
Maserati Quattroporte with ZF Technology
The sixth-generation Maserati Quattroporte comes with ZF technology to underscore the vehicle’s hallmark characteristics: The 8-speed automatic transmission (8HP) is synonymous with dynamics and comfort in equal measure – all combined with high fuel efficiency. The Continuous Damping Control (CDC) electronic damping system provides the vehicle with more driving safety, comfort, and dynamics by adapting the damping forces for each individual wheel within milliseconds and in the best possible manner. A luxurious and sporty touring car that comfortably accommodates up to five – this concept enabled the first Maserati Quattroporte to claim its rightful place in the automotive world 50 years ago. The fifth-generation sedan rolled into the showrooms with ZF technology onboard. Similarly the
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sixth-generation Quattroporte, which is now being launched, also features this technology: The new Quattroporte puts onto the road 390 kW (530 hp) from the 3.8-litre V8 Biturbo coupled with the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. “Developing the application in light of this phenomenal engine torque is no mean feat,” says Dr. Gerhard Wagner, member of the ZF Board of Management and Head of ZF’s Powertrain Technology division. “With the 8HP for the Quattroporte we successfully managed to pull off brilliantly the delicate balancing act between sportiness and comfort.” Compared with its predecessor, the 8-speed automatic transmission delivers fuel savings of 6pc. Together with the start/stop function, which the 8HP enables without an additional pump, the savings potential can even reach up to 11pc. In doing so, ZF’s 8-speed automatic
transmission is not only highly efficient but also extremely dynamic. It boasts extremely short response and shift times that basically go unnoticed. Double shifts and direct multiple shifts are also possible. These wide-ranging characteristics are enhanced on the suspension side by the CDC electronic damping system. The system, made up of sensors, dampers and an electronic control unit, adjusts the suspension damping in fractions of a second to the particular driving situation. It enables the Quattroporte to switch almost instantly from a comfortablesoft to sporty-hard setting. As a result, the wheels maintain better contact with the road, which in turn translates into greater safety.
March 2013 / 85