I've been thinking for a while without doing any real research on the topic, but is there any reason why no one builds 5 or 6 speed auto's like the ones found in the VE's. I noticed the v8 models still retain a 4 speed (i think) so im assuming the 5 and 6 speeds just wont cut the mustard when it comes to big power but surely there is an auto out there that will be able to take some decent power with atleast 5 gears. If there is, surely it would be the best of all worlds. Driveability with minimised lag and the ability to keep the car in its powerband for longer. That being said im sure there's a reason why no one uses them so shed some light transmission guru's.

I would love a zf 6 speed from an xr6t in the vl.

i am of the opinion that 90% + of vls are built for the strip anyway, so anyone looking to spend cash on a vl is going to be more than likely going 3 speed or 2 speed for the strip. 2 main reasons being that 1/4 mile time really is the measuring stick (especially on this site) of how fast a vl is and vls handle like ****, so its less about the drivability than about the bursts of acceleration. for those who want to really drive a car on the street generally its more of a manual thing anyway. so between big auto for the drags or an easy manual for street fun one is unlikely to find many built autos for street fun. that said its pretty easy to build the jatco to be a street weapon, 4 speeds is all you really need anyway and fully manualise it... i would love to see paddles in a vl, tastefully done but functional, would kick arse!!!

i think also alot of it comes down to money, not many people want to spend 10+ grand (might even be looking closer to 20k depending whats involed, i dont know exactly) to properly get a 6 speed auto into a vl. Therefore not much demand. For that money you could do far more with the rest of the car and have a good 3 - 4 speed auto. With saying that its probly possible, there is a few people building the v8 6 speed ve autos to cop a fair bit of power at the moment. Just alot of internals need to be replaced which starts adding up very fast.

Well its funny you say this.. the late model LS1 ECU's are being used now with custom OS to tune different engines, like Holden 5L etc. Not a big stretch of the imagination to build an OS for a RB30 and link it to the Auto Transmission Controller for a 6speed Auto like out of the VE.. custom bellhousing and stall. Sideshow Wiring and Castle Hill Exhaust would be the people to talk to.