This new six-speed manual transmission might be compatible with the C8 Corvette and the Ford Mustang GTD.

      Chevrolet, TREMEC, edited by the author

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      TREMEC, a prominent supplier of transmissions for both OEM and aftermarket, has revealed something many have longed for: a high-performance six-speed manual transmission that could be fitted into a C8 Corvette. This new transaxle specifically shares the same basic housing shape and mounting points as TREMEC’s TR-9080 eight-speed dual-clutch automatic, which is standard in all new Corvettes. This transaxle is also utilized in the Ford Mustang GTD.

      To clarify: Do not expect Chevy or Ford to add a manual transmission option to the factory lineup for either vehicle mentioned. TREMEC is targeting this new six-speed directly to custom car builders and racing teams. “TREMEC designed the transmission to incorporate the TR-9080 DCT mounting points and a similar case profile. This enables builders to use already available factory Corvette components for simpler installation,” the company stated in a press release.

      TREMEC is written in all caps because it denotes TRansmisiones y Equipos MECánicos—it was established in Mexico in 1964. Initially focused on truck transmissions, the company is now well-known for its high-performance products. TREMEC was responsible for designing the eight-speed dual-clutch TR-9080 transaxle found in the Corvette and Mustang GTD. While a transmission and a transaxle are conceptually similar, they differ mechanically. In simple terms, a transmission transfers engine power to the differential, axles, and ultimately to the wheels, whereas a transaxle combines the transmission and differential into one unit.

      Here you can see the TR-9080 installed in the C8. Chevrolet

      No release date or pricing details for TREMEC’s new six-speed have been made public yet, but it is confirmed to be heading into production, not just a concept. Although it should physically fit in a C8 or GTD, ensuring proper functionality would necessitate custom engine control software and, of course, the installation of a shifter and clutch pedal in the cabin, which may pose a significant obstacle with the mid-engine Corvette. Here are some images of the new transaxle:

      I suspect the primary buyers will be custom racing vehicles and perhaps a few high-end custom street cars, rather than it going through OEM validation to become a factory option. Nonetheless, it's exciting news.

      Here are the specifications TREMEC has shared so far:

      New TREMEC 6MT Transaxle Specifications

      - TR-9080 DCT mounting points

      - Designed for use in a variety of builds and engine configurations

      - Estimated input torque rating of 800 ft-lbs and compatible with up to 1,000 horsepower, boasting a maximum engine RPM capability of 8,600

      - Gear shifts managed by a cable connecting to the shift mechanism on the left side of the transaxle

      - Equipped with a mechanical limited-slip

      - Multi-plate clutch with a concentric slave cylinder for clutch actuation

      - Gear lubrication and cooling provided by a geroter pump driven from the transaxle’s input shaft

      - Gear ratios (see table below) selected to ensure compatibility with a wide range of engines, power outputs, and RPM ranges

      TREMEC 6MT transaxle gear ratios. TREMEC, edited by the author

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