ArvinMeritor Inc and ZF Friedrichshafen AG are delighted with the latest ruling from the International Trade Commission on the importation of the FreedomLine transmissions that are manufactured by ZF Friedrichshafen in Germany.
"We were confident that the re-design did not infringe on the 279 patent, and the ruling has certainly verified our position in serving customers," said Wolfgang Vogel, executive vice president, commercial vehicle transmissions, and a member of the management board of ZF Friedrichshafen.
The FreedomLine automated mechanical transmission entered North America in 2001. The component's ease of operation and improved fuel economy have contributed to motor carriers' profitable operations.
"Our commitment to technology advancements like FreedomLine remain ever diligent, and we will continue to pursue a freedom of technology choice on our customers' behalf," added Tom Gosnell, president of ArvinMeritor commercial vehicle systems. "The transmission remains a strong viable powertrain option for our customers who desire a choice in gearboxes."