ZF Marine recently rolled out the first two-speed transmission for outboards, the result of a four-year collaboration with outboard masters Mercury Marine. The new transmission is part of the recently revealed V12 Verado Outboard, and ZF is touting it as a “game changer.”

“This project emphasizes our leading position in propulsion technology and successful collaboration with our long-standing partner Mercury Marine. The collaboration was defined with the objective of developing the most powerful and innovative engine in the market, and the trust in ZF Marine as the right partner,” said Federico Decio, ZF’s vice president of Industrial Technology.

ZF has used two-speed transmissions before, but never applied them to outboards, where they “perfectly match engine characteristics to different operative modes.” And regardless of operative modes, the two speeds help maximize propulsion demands by matching engine power and propeller demand.

“In this particular case, the two-speed transmission delivers maximum torque and acceleration in the first gear, and then silently shifts to the second gear for cruising efficiency and thrilling top speed. Shifting is almost imperceptible,” ZF said in a press release.

Proportional valves drive the transmission’s wet clutch and shifting, making for the smooth shifting while providing optimal low speed capabilities, perfect for trolling, docking and maneuvering in general. An available joystick system increases precision and smoothness.

Tim Reid, the vice president of Product Development for Mercury Marine, explained that acceleration is fast and smooth with the two-speed transmission.

“First gear is 20 percent lower than second gear, which generates high propeller torque, and the ability to accelerate the boat and get it on plane quickly. The engine continues to deliver power and accelerations through its power shift, all the way to rated speed,” Reid said.