For many drivers, the automatic transmission torque converter is one of the most important components of their vehicles. In this article, we will take a look at the different types and applications of automatic transmission torque converters, their pros and cons, and how they can improve the overall performance of your vehicle.

Drivers of the Automatic Transmission Torque Converter

1. Hydraulic System: The hydraulic system is a key component of the torque converter, as it provides the pressure and flow necessary to engage the full range of gears. This system consists of a pump, an impeller, a stator, and a turbine. The hydraulic pressure generated by these components creates the force that transfers power from the engine to the transmission.

2. Electronic Control Unit (ECU): The ECU is responsible for controlling all aspects of torque converter operation. It monitors engine speed, throttle position, transmission speed, and other variables to determine when to shift gears and how much torque needs to be applied for each gear. It also controls clutch engagement and disengagement for smooth transitions between gears.

3. Torque Converter Clutch: The torque converter clutch is an important component in automatic transmissions. It is responsible for locking up the torque converter during shifts or when maximum power needs to be transmitted from the engine to the transmission. This allows for seamless shifting between gears while also providing better fuel efficiency compared to manual transmissions.

Advantages of the Market

1. Improved Fuel Efficiency: Automatic transmission torque converters provide better fuel efficiency than manual transmissions, as they are able to maximize the engine’s power output while providing smooth shifting between gears. This allows for improved fuel cell economy and lower emissions.

2. Smoother Operation: Another benefit of the automatic transmission torque converter is that it provides smoother operation than a manual transmission because it reduces the shock and vibration that can occur when shifting gears manually. The converter also allows for faster acceleration and deceleration which helps to reduce wear on the driveline components.

3. Lower Maintenance Costs: The automatic transmission torque converter requires less maintenance due to its design, which eliminates many of the parts that need to be replaced with manual transmissions such as clutches, flywheels, and synchro’s. This leads to lower maintenance costs over time.

Market Value and CAGR of the Automatic Transmission Torque Converter (2022-2032)

The market value and CAGR of the Automatic Transmission Torque Converter is expected to reach USD 17.9 billion by 2032 and is estimated to grow with a CAGR of 9.1% during the forecast period 2022-2032.

The increasing demand for automatic transmission vehicles and the growing need to reduce fuel consumption are driving the growth of the Automatic Transmission Torque Converter market. Besides, faster shift time, better shift quality, and reduced vehicle weight are some of the factors that will further contribute to the growth of the Automatic Transmission Torque Converter market in the coming years.

Challenges of the Automatic Transmission Torque Converter

1. Heat: Automatic transmission torque converters generate heat due to the friction created from the rotating parts. This heat can lead to premature wear and tear of the converter, as well as other components in the transmission system.

2. Leaks: Leaks are a common problem with torque converters, due to their complex design. Leaking fluid can affect performance and cause damage if not addressed quickly.

3. Stall Speed: The stall speed is an important factor when considering a torque converter’s efficiency and effectiveness since it determines how quickly the vehicle will accelerate from a standing start. If the stall speed is too low, it can affect the transmission’s overall performance.

Key Players in the Automatic Transmission Torque Converter

Some of the names of major companies in the Automatic Transmission Torque Converter are :
1. Sonnad Industries
2. Eaton Corporation
3. BorgWarner Inc.
4. Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd.
5. Jaco Ltd.
6. ZF Friedrichshafen AG
7. Continental AG
8. Denso Corporation
9. Graziano Transmission SPA

Market Analysis

The most demanded product of the Automatic Transmission Torque Converter is expected to be the low-torque slip converters as they are widely used in most of the cars. The application of the product is mostly in passenger vehicles, but it can also be used in light commercial and heavy commercial vehicles.

The end user segment mostly consists of automotive OEMs and aftermarket suppliers. Automotive OEMs includes companies that manufacture cars or components of cars or use Automatic Transmission Torque Converter for their own car production. Aftermarket suppliers on the other hand provide parts to vehicle owners for replacement or repair purposes.

The region wise demand for the Automatic Transmission Torque Converter will be highest from China, followed by Europe and North America. This is due to the high number of car production in these regions. Additionally, emerging markets such as India and Brazil will also contribute significantly towards the global demand for Automatic Transmission Torque Converters.

Impact of Covid-19

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the global economy, with the automotive industry being one of the hardest hit sectors. The production of vehicles and components has been disrupted due to shutdowns of factories and suppliers in various parts of the world. This has led to a decrease in demand for new vehicles, which has in turn resulted in a decline in sales for the automatic transmission torque converter market.

The market is expected to recover from the impact of the pandemic over the forecast period (2020-2022). Production is expected to ramp up as factories reopen and supply chains normalize.

Key developments

In January 2019, Ford announced that they would use a new torque converter design in their future production vehicles, dubbed the "10-Speed Automatic Torque Converter." This new design utilizes two separate torque converters to more efficiently transfer power from the engine to the transmission, resulting in improved fuel economy and drivability.

In November 2019, Bosch introduced the world’s first electronically controlled torque converter for passenger cars. The technology replaces an electromechanical clutch with an electronic control unit (ECU), allowing for seamless gear shifts and improved efficiency.

In March 2020, Honda unveiled its Variable Torque Management System (VTMS) for automatic transmissions. This system uses a unique combination of sensors and actuators to precisely control torque output from the engine, allowing for smoother and more fuel-efficient shifting.

Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Market Scope

Key Segment of Half Shaft Constant Velocity Joints Market

By Type Overview (USD Billion)
    • Outboard Joints 
    • Inboard Joints

By Application Overview (USD Billion)
    • Commercial Vehicle 
    • Passenger Car

By Region Overview (USD Billion)

North America 
    • USA 
    • Canada 

Asia Pacific
    • China 
    • India 
    • Japan 
    • Rest of Asia Pacific 

South America 
    • Mexico 
    • Brazil 
    • Rest of North America 

Europe 
    • Germany 
    • France 
    • UK 
    • Rest of Europe 

Middle East and Africa