Bespoke oil answers automatic transmission demands

Automotive components specialists at Shell lubricants companies have developed a bespoke oil for automotive components company ZF.

Automotive components specialists at Shell lubricants companies have developed a bespoke oil for automotive components company ZF.

The lubricant, Shell ATF M-1375.4, has been used by ZF to develop a state-of-the-art six speed automatic transmission, which is used in the new BMW six and seven series, Audi A8, VW Phaeton and new Jaguar models.

ZF Friedrichshafen is an internationally active automotive industry supplier specialising in driveline and chassis systems.

The company operates 119 plants located in 25 countries and has nearly 53,500 employees.

Shell Lubricants have a long term relationship with ZF, supplying the organisation with factory plant maintenance products.

In 1999, this relationship resulted in Shell and ZF developing a partnership approach and a joined-up research and development programme.

Comments Manfred Buksch, Head of Development of Automatic Transmissions at ZF: "Shell Lubricants are a long-term partner that provide us with first class technology that enables us to improve our products".

"Their excellent facilities, people and technical expertise ensure that we can always rely on them to innovate and add value; that's why we view Shell Lubricants as a strategic partner rather than just a supplier".

Thanks to their strong relationship with ZF, Shell Lubricants were invited to submit proposals for working with the company to develop a transmission fluid for a new six-speed transmission for passenger cars at ZF's Saarbrucken site in Germany.

In order to secure the contract, Shell Lubricants had to demonstrate they had the necessary logistics in place and the production facilities and technology available to produce high volumes of the product.

Shell's response was development of Shell ATF M-1375.4, manufactured at its specialist blending plant, Grasbrook in Germany.

As a result, Shell was awarded an exclusive contract to supply up to 6500 fluid tonnes per year of Shell ATF M-1375.4.

Says Juergen Roehler, Shell Lubricants, Automotive Components Sector and Brand Manager: "Throughout our relationship with ZF we have demonstrated a solutions-driven approach that has ensured we have responded to their commercial requirements with high performance products and excellent service levels".

"When ZF outlined their need for a lubricant that would help them further their development of advanced technology we were delighted to offer a bespoke solution to answer their product need and to utilise our blending plant and distribution resources to ensure efficient supply".

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