DALLAS (Nov. 27, 2000) — Peterbilt announced that it is offering the ZFMeritor FreedomLine automated transmission in regular production of its Model 387 tractors, to be followed by the classic Model 379.

FreedomLine is the first product from ZFMeritor, a joint venture between heavy-duty component suppliers ZF Friedrichshafen and ArvinMeritor. The electronically controlled mechanical gearbox automates the clutch, eliminating the need for a clutch pedal completely. The transmission comes in 12 variations, direct and overdrive, with torque capacities ranging from 1350 to 1850 pound feet.

Early production is restricted to 12-speed versions, with 16-speeds coming in mid-2001, and the 1850-pound-foot model later still.

An early user, John Kreilkamp, owner of a 300-tractor fleet in Allenton, Wis., said the five pre-production 16-speed models in his fleet delivered a fuel-economy improvement from 6.0 to 7.3 mpg. That represents a projected annual fuel cost saving of about $5500 US per truck, he said.