Geely to Develop DSI 7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission In-House
Geely has begun developing a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission based on DSI technology, with most of the engineering handled by its own teams following the Australian acquisition.
In mid-2009, Geely Holding Group made a significant move by acquiring Drivetrain Systems International (DSI), then the largest gearbox manufacturer in Australia. DSI was known for its production of 4-speed and 6-speed automatic transmissions, supplying several global automakers. Before the acquisition, DSI’s main expertise lay in conventional automatic gearboxes, but the company also had a team with basic experience in dual-clutch transmission (DCT) technology. However, DSI’s 4-speed development team had already departed, and ongoing research into advanced transmissions had slowed.
Background: Geely's Acquisition of DSI
Geely’s acquisition of DSI was part of a broader strategy to enhance its technological capabilities and reduce dependence on external suppliers for key drivetrain components. The move allowed Geely to access DSI’s intellectual property, engineering talent, and established manufacturing processes. This positioned Geely to accelerate the development of new transmission technologies, including the 7-speed DCT now under development.
Development of the 7-Speed DCT
Geely has now confirmed that it is developing a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission for its future vehicles, drawing on DSI’s technical foundation. According to Zhao Fu, Geely’s vice president for technology, the majority of research and development work, about 85%, will be managed by Geely’s own engineering team. DSI’s Melbourne-based group, made up of around 50 engineers, will contribute the remaining 15%. This collaborative approach has led to the creation of a “Combined Fleet” of engineers from both companies, pooling their expertise to advance the project.
The 7-speed DCT is being developed to enhance the driving experience in future Geely models, offering quicker gear changes and improved efficiency compared to conventional automatics. While the specific models that will receive the new transmission have not been named, Geely has indicated that the technology will play a key role in its next generation of vehicles. The project is being managed from both Geely’s Automobile Research Institute and DSI’s R&D centre in Melbourne, ensuring a blend of local and international expertise.
Collaboration Between Geely and DSI
The partnership between Geely and DSI is central to the 7-speed DCT’s development. Geely’s technology team is leading the effort, but DSI’s experience with transmission design and manufacturing is providing valuable support. The “Combined Fleet” approach means that knowledge transfer is ongoing, with engineers from both sides working closely together. This model of collaboration is expected to help Geely build up its own expertise in advanced transmission technologies, potentially reducing future reliance on external partners.
DSI’s previous work on automatic transmissions, particularly the 6-speed unit, has already proven beneficial for Geely. The 7-speed DCT project represents a step forward, as dual-clutch systems are more complex and typically found in higher-end vehicles. By investing in this technology, Geely is aiming to improve the performance and appeal of its future models.
6-Speed Automatic Transmission Rollout
While the 7-speed DCT is still in the development phase, Geely is moving ahead with plans to expand the use of DSI’s 6-speed automatic transmission across its vehicle range. Starting from the following year, all Geely models with engines above 1.5 litres, including the well-known London Taxi TX4, will be equipped with this transmission. Production of the 6-speed automatic is being localised in China, which is expected to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
Geely expects the domestic production and rollout of the 6-speed automatic to have a significant commercial impact, helping the company to compete more effectively in both domestic and export markets. The move also demonstrates Geely’s commitment to integrating DSI’s technology into its broader product strategy, rather than limiting the benefits of the acquisition to a single project.
Significance and Future Prospects
The development of the 7-speed DCT marks Geely’s first major research and development initiative since acquiring DSI. This project signals a shift towards more in-house development of advanced automotive technologies and a focus on building long-term engineering capabilities. For Geely, success in this area could lead to improved product competitiveness and greater independence from third-party technology providers.
For DSI, the partnership with Geely provides an opportunity to remain engaged in transmission technology development, despite changes in the global automotive industry. The collaboration allows DSI’s Melbourne team to continue working on complex projects, contributing to both companies’ growth.
Although Geely has not announced a specific launch date for the 7-speed DCT or named the first models to receive it, the ongoing development reflects the company’s broader ambitions in the automotive sector. By investing in advanced transmission technologies, Geely aims to strengthen its position in both domestic and international markets.
