Volkswagen has developed a new manual gearbox. Designed for efficiency, the MQ281 promises to save up to 5g of CO₂ per kilometer depending on the engine-gearbox combination.

“With the MQ281, we have developed a highly efficient manual gearbox that reliably meets demands – and is soon to be introduced into a number of vehicle classes in the volume segment,” said Helmut Göbbels, head of manual gearbox and four-wheel-drive development at Volkswagen.

The MQ281 has a torque spectrum of 200-340Nm, is based on a 2.5 shaft concept, and boasts a high gear spread of maximum 7.89.

“We employed virtual development methods,” added Göbbels. “This enabled us to design a completely new oil conduction system. Using a variety of oil conduction measures, we are able to achieve a uniform and optimum lubrication of gear wheels and bearings, reducing the amount of lifetime oil required to just 1.5 liters.”

To further reduce friction, a bearing concept adapted to the gearbox was also developed. The design uses friction-minimizing bearings with low-contact seals.

The Volkswagen MQ281 is produced in-house and ramp-up is currently underway in the OEM’s factories in Barcelona (Spain) and Córdoba (Argentina). The new Passat will be the first vehicle to be equipped with the MQ281, followed by almost all vehicle classes of the Volkswagen Group.