Chrysler plans dual-clutch transmission

Chrysler is planning to offer dual-clutch transmissions on many of its mid-sized vehicles in the coming years, according to trade publication Automotive News. Currently, the Volkswagen group (including Audi and Bugatti) is the only company selling vehicles with the technology in America.

Industry analysts say the first Chrysler vehicles to receive the technology will include key front-wheel-drive offerings like minivans and the Dodge Avenger sedan.

DaimlerChrysler is said to be in talks to build a $560 million plant in Kokomo, Ind with yearly capacity of 700,000 transmissions. Availability would begin with the 2010 model year.