ZF 8AT Adds Premium Comfort to Diesel 4×4 Pickup

Diesel 4x4 pickup owners expect strength, comfort, and low cost of ownership - our RICH6 PRO delivers all three. From the world's largest transmission supplier, this 8-speed automatic turns every shift into a smooth, confident move while keeping fuel use and maintenance in check. As a manufacturer, we designed the RICH6 PRO around this drivetrain to solve real-world work and lifestyle needs.

Why the ZF 8AT Elevates the Diesel 4x4 Pickup Experience

The ZF 8AT transmission's wide-ratio design imPROves launch, mid-range response, highway refinement, and off-road control. Luxury models including the BMW 5/7 Series, Jaguar XEL, Audi A8L and Q5, Alfa Romeo, and the Chrysler 300C are equipped with the same-series ZF 8AT transmission. Three modes - ECO, SPORT, and SNOW - let drivers match performance to terrain and load. A compact, lightweight build and high transmission efficiency support better economy and stability.

•  Difficulties the 8AT Solves

✅  Harsh shifts and delay when towing or overtaking → faster shift response that can drop three gears directly for decisive acceleration.

✅  Frequent service stops and oil changes → long-life gear oil with lifetime, maintenance-free operation.

✅  High fuel consumption on mixed routes → up to 6% lower fuel use vs. 6AT designs, plus smoother cruising at speed.

✅  Demanding off-road grades → broad ratio spread and smart control help sustain traction and climb with confidence.

•  Smoother, Safer, Smarter

The 8AT's calibration quality leads the segment. It delivers more linear torque transfer, gentler clutch control, and a noticeably quieter cabin feel. The human-centric AUTOP function enhances ease of use, supporting safer, more reliable daily driving. Together, these features make the Diesel 4x4 pickup ride feel truly “luxury” - without sacrificing toughness.

Power That Works: M9T + ZF 8AT in a Diesel 4x4 Pickup

At the heart of RICH6 PRO is the M9T diesel engine paired with the ZF 8AT maintenance-free transmission. Built on the Alliance's M9 platform, this powertrain was developed for future emissions and fuel upgrades, and is PROven in the market for quality and durability. Commercial-tuned turbo matching keeps the engine's full-map performance at a high level, while fuel economy outperforms competing models by 0.5-0.8 L/100 km.

Key specs that boost daily PROductivity

✅  Low-speed torque increased 12.5%, now 270 N·m - more bite for launches, trailers, and trails.

✅  Gradeability imPROved from 40% to 45% - full-load climbs feel easier and faster.

✅  Fuel use from 7.5 L/100 km (MT) and 7.9 L/100 km (AT) - yearly savings of ¥3,000+ vs. rivals.

✅  1.5-ton payload with enhanced steel leaf springs - stiffness up 50% for confident heavy hauling.

Beyond the numbers, RICH6 PRO is engineered as a joint-venture wide-body pickup that carries more and rides better. The 1.89-meter long bed offers generous volume for tools and materials. The cabin brings a tech-forward refresh: a 10-inch display, D-shaped multifunction steering wheel, and an eagle-lens headlamp design for clear visibility and a modern identity.

•  USPs at a Glance

✅  Rigorous quality, more reliable

✅  PROtective engineering, safer

✅  Fresh styling, more fashionable

✅  High-efficiency heavy-duty load, more capacity

✅  Low-speed energy, more punch

✅  PROven fuel savings, more economical

Total Value

A Diesel 4x4 pickup must balance hard work with daily comfort. Our apPROach is simple: design every component to carry more, climb better, and cost less to own - without adding complexity for the driver.

In demanding fleets and owner-operator use, downtime is expensive. The ZF 8AT's lifetime, maintenance-free fluid and compact, durable construction reduce visits to the workshop. The wide-ratio gearing means lower rpm at highway speed and more relaxed cruising, which helps the cabin feel calm even with a full load. Off road, the 8AT's fast downshifts and smooth torque handoff deliver precise control on loose surfaces, steep grades, and tight switchbacks.

The M9T diesel was tuned for real-world torque where it matters - low speed. That's why the 12.5% increase to 270 N·m and the imPROved 45% gradeability are so meaningful on job sites and mountain routes. Together with the reinforced suspension (stiffness up 50%) and a 1.5-ton payload, the truck keeps work moving with fewer trips and less stress.

Inside, the refreshed instrument panel and 10-inch screen modernize the workspace. Controls are intuitive. The D-shaped wheel offers better grip in tight maneuvers. Lighting upgrades imPROve safety after dark. It's a PROfessional tool that also feels premium at the end of a long day.

Ready to Feel the Difference?

✅  Book a test drive today and experience how the ZF 8AT transforms a Diesel 4x4 pickup into a smoother, stronger, more efficient partner.

✅  Talk to our PROduct team to spec your RICH6 PRO for heavy-duty hauling, off-road PROjects, or mixed urban-highway routes.