GM confirms eight-speed transmission for 2015 Silverado, Sierra, Yukon

General Motors has confirmed that its new eight-speed transmission will be standard equipment on a handful of 2015 pickup and SUV models.

The new gearbox will be mated to the company’s 6.2-liter EcoTec V8, which produces 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. It can be found under the hood of the new Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, GMC Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali.

The 8L90 was first introduced for the 2015 Corvette Stingray, promising to improve performance and efficiency without adding weight. In the pickups and SUVs, it is approximately the same size and weight as the existing six-speed automatic.

Drivers will benefit from a wider overall gear-ratio spread, including a higher first gear ratio for easier takeoff with a heavy load or trailer. It also enables lower rear-axle ratios, reducing engine rpm at highway speeds.

GM promises to announce additional technical details, including official EPA efficiency estimates, closer to the start of production in the fourth quarter of the year.