GREENSBORO, N.C. — Mack Trucks announced today it that its mDrive HD 13-speed  automated manual transmission (AMT) will be standard on Mack Granite models.

The AMT features a low ratio creeper gear and helps boost customer productivity thanks to improved performance and reduced weight, Mack says.  The mDrive HD 13-speed is also available on the Mack Pinnacle and Titan by Mack models.  

“Making the mDrive HD 13-speed standard on the Granite is a natural evolution of our industry leadership,” said Dennis Slagle, president of Mack Trucks. “Since its introduction, the mDrive has become incredibly popular – starting first with highway and more recently with many heavy-duty vocational applications. The introduction of the 13- and 14-speed gears expands the range and performance in vocational applications so much so that it is only natural for it to become our standard offering in the Granite model.”

The AMT is available in both  direct or overdrive configurations and offers a low reduction creeper gear ratio designed for easier startability on steep grades or when the truck is carrying a heavy load. This improved startability also allows customers to select a faster rear axle ratio. The faster ratio decreases engine rpm at highway speeds, saving fuel as the truck travels between job sites. It is also monitored by Mack GuardDog Connect.

In March, Mack also announced the availability of the mDrive HD 14-speed.

“Response to the mDrive and mDrive HD has been tremendous,” said Roy Horton, director of product strategy. “Currently, mDrive penetration for Pinnacle axle back and axle forward models is at approximately 80% and 60%, respectively, while mDrive HD penetration for Granite models is about 20% and growing. The penetration level of mDrive in all our models has continued to increase since its introduction.”

The Mack Granite model is available in axle forward or axle back configurations.

The Mack mDrive HD 13- and 14-speed AMTs are scheduled to go into full production in October.