Honda Files Patent for 11-Speed, Triple-Clutch Transmission

Honda Motor Co. has filed a patent application in Japan for a transmission system with 11 forward gears and three clutches, according to several media reports.

The setup is designed to improve efficiency and reduce shift times. Using a third clutch can decrease the torque loss that occurs with current dual-clutch transmissions, the reports say, citing translations of the patent application.

Last year Ford Motor Co. filed an application in the U.S. for three 11-speed automatic transmission configurations.

Several carmakers currently offer 9-speed transmissions. The first 10-speed system, which Ford co-developed with General Motors Co., will be launched later this year in select Ford and GM models.