BorgWarner strengthened its leadership in dual-clutch transmission (DCT) technology by securing two significant contracts in China. The company has signed a new deal with a Chinese transmission manufacturer and extended an existing contract with a German OEM for seven years, highlighting its expertise and growing influence in the region’s automotive market.
“Our success in securing new projects in the Chinese market underscores BorgWarner’s commitment to delivering innovative solutions in the region,” said Isabelle McKenzie, Vice President of BorgWarner Inc. and President and General Manager, Drivetrain and Morse Systems. “We are dedicated to helping our customers grow their business in China and succeed in international markets.”
What are the new projects?
The new contract involves supplying DCT clutch modules for a Chinese OEM’s SUVs and sedans, targeted for both domestic and export markets. Produced at BorgWarner’s Taicang facility, the clutch module offers a compact design, superior thermal robustness, and cost-effectiveness. Key benefits include smooth shifting across various conditions, excellent hill-start performance, and optimal racing starts. Mass production is set to begin by the end of 2025.
The seven-year extension with the German OEM, based on a decade of successful collaboration, involves DCT clutch assemblies manufactured at BorgWarner’s Tianjin plant. Designed for internal combustion engines and mild hybrid vehicles, these assemblies reduce rotational inertia, minimise friction losses, and lower drag torque compared to conventional wet DCTs. This results in enhanced transmission efficiency and a smoother, more responsive driving experience.
Recently in North America, BorgWarner secured a contract with a major, global OEM to deliver its 400-volt HVCH on a series of the automaker’s plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) platforms. This HVCH PHEV deal spans mid-size pickup trucks, SUVs and minivans, and production is expected to begin production in 2027. The deal marks BorgWarner’s largest HVCH PHEV award in North America to date based on expected volumes.