Who makes Fords 10 speed transmission?
Ford designs and builds its 10-speed automatic (the 10R80) in-house, with components sourced from a network of suppliers as part of Ford's global powertrain strategy. This article explains who makes it, how it was developed, and what it means for Ford's lineup.
What is the 10R80 and who makes it?
The 10R80 is Ford's 10-speed automatic transmission introduced in 2017 for the F-150 and related vehicles. It is designed by Ford Motor Company and manufactured in Ford powertrain facilities, using a supplier network for parts and subassemblies. It represents Ford's move to more gears to improve efficiency and performance.
Here are the key points about who makes it and how it fits into Ford's strategy.
- Designation and purpose: The 10-speed automatic, internally named 10R80, is Ford's 10‑speed unit used in longitudinal-drive applications (F-150, Expedition, and select Lincolns).
- Maker: Ford Motor Company leads the design and production of the 10R80; major components are sourced from a network of suppliers that support Ford's powertrain program.
- Deployment: It began rolling out in 2017 on the F-150 and has since been used in several Ford and Lincoln models.
- Performance aim: The 10R80 is intended to improve acceleration, payload capacity, and fuel economy relative to the older 6- and 8-speed automatics Ford previously used in those models.
In short, Ford is the primary maker of the 10-speed transmission, with a broad supplier ecosystem contributing components and systems integration.
Manufacturing and partnerships
Ford's 10R80 is manufactured within Ford's own powertrain and transmission facilities. While Ford remains the primary designer and assembler, a network of suppliers provides critical subassemblies and technical support to ensure the transmission meets Ford's performance and durability standards.
There has been industry discussion in the mid-2010s about collaboration between major automakers on shared transmission technology, including talks that involved Ford and General Motors. Ford ultimately staffed and produced the 10R80 in-house for its vehicles, with suppliers handling specialized components and manufacturing steps as part of Ford's integrated supply chain.
Historical context
In the broader industry context, automakers have pursued shared platforms and transmissions to reduce development costs. Ford's decision to bring the 10-speed into its own powertrain family reflects a trend toward greater in-house control over design, calibration, and integration with its engines and vehicle systems. This approach is intended to deliver consistent performance and reliability across Ford's lineup.
Summary
The Ford 10-speed automatic (10R80) is primarily an in-house project led by Ford Motor Company, built at Ford powertrain facilities with components supplied by a network of suppliers. It debuted in 2017 and has since powered a range of Ford and Lincoln models, delivering improved efficiency and performance through ten gears rather than fewer. Ford's approach emphasizes internal control over design, calibration, and integration with its engines and vehicle systems.
