The 8HP transmission series got its start at ZF Friedrichshafen AG in Germany in the early 2000s. The 8HP75 transmission was first developed in 2005 before being officially introduced in 2008 after the 8HP70. Fitted to the V12 engine of the BMW 7 Series 760Li saloon, it immediately made an impression for its smooth shifting and durability. Chrysler, Jaguar, Land Rover, and VW all took notice of its modular design, making it a popular choice for luxury brands and performance vehicles alike. 

The 8HP75 features eight forward gears, three clutches, and two forward brakes. This winning combo has made for better fuel efficiency and more precise shifting compared to its competitors on the market. It’s compatible with all-wheel drive systems, which makes it easy to pair with a variety of brands. With a modular design, engineers didn’t have to add more room to the cars. They only needed to adapt components to fit into the standard spot under the hood. (A modular design also makes it possible to use different power outputs.) The transmission can be used in rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, performance, and hybrid models. 

This is why you can see the 8HP75 in the Porsche Panamera, Range Rover Sport, BMW X5, and Dodge Challenger. The 8HP75 was mostly used in the BMW Series until 2011. It was this year it was introduced to Chrysler vehicles. In 2012 and 2013, Land Rover and Audi vehicles began to implement them into their technology. Chrysler took an immediate affinity to the ZF brand, licensing their technology in 2013 to build these transmissions under the name Torqueflite 8. The two companies also partnered together to manufacture these transmissions outside of Germany. In 2017, ZF and Chrysler opened a new production plant in the US. All-in-all, the 8HP75 transmission was used in the Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio (Stelvio and Giulia models), the BMW 5 series (G30/G31/F90), BMW X5 M (F85), BMW 7 series (G11/12), BMW X5 (F15), RAM 2500, RAM 1500, Astin Martin DB11, Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel, and the Jeep Wrangler 392. 

In 2014, ZF came out with the second generation of the 8HP75. The changes included a wider ratio spread (7.8:1 vs. 7.2:1), giving the transmission more efficiency at every speed. It also reduced the drag torque, so it was less likely to lose power (and fuel efficiency) when shifting. Further touches included a better coasting and start-stop system as well as reduced vibrations for more comfort on the road. The 8HP75 has a power capacity of up to 500 horsepower and 600 lb-ft of torque, though the specifics will depend on the application.