The rumors might be true. Ram Trucks are reportedly to stop using 68RFE truck transmission and switch to the heavy-duty ZF eight-speed transmission in the 2025 HD trucks. According to the information I have found, the 2025 HD trucks will adopt the highly anticipated ZF eight-speed automatic transmission across all models. This decision is sure to come with a certain amount of cheers from many fans of Ram trucks who have long been waiting for an eight-speed replacement for the 68RFE six-speed transmission.
The 8AT by ZF is reported to be a durable replacement for the 698RFE as it is designed specifically for heavy-duty vehicles.
Engineers within ZF, Cummins, and Ram, collaborated to create the eight-speed to easily support an engine spitting out 1,000 lb-ft of torque. For those of you who order your 2025 HD Ram with a PTO option, the transmission can channel nearly 500 lb-ft of torque to an engine-driven PTO.
The ZF eight-speed also benefits from a fully integrated transmission control unit (TCM) that connects via a single connector with programmed adaptive shifting and comfort strategies. It also delivers automatic skip shifting for a reported 30-percent increase in acceleration. Inside the bellhousing is a dual damper lock-up converter. The dampers act as shock absorbers for the torque convertor as they absorb engine and transmission vibrations, optimize fuel economy, and help smooth engine operation
The eight-speed is aided with a transmission-mounted oil cooler and substantial weight reduction. What’s more. Drivers can plan to see an increase in fuel efficiency along with increased driveline capacity and reliability.
The jury is out amongst truck enthusiasts as to how the new first year eight-speed transmission will work out in the new 2025 Ram. Only time will tell. Sure, many will cheer about the 68RFE replacement, but others will chant concerns about a first-year model change. We will just have to wait and see how this new unit performs.
