Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract] Statement [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Common stock Non-voting common stock [Member] Non-voting common stock Non-voting common stock [Member] Statement [Line Items] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current Assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Accounts receivable - net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $0.9 and $1.3, respectively Inventories Total inventories Inventory, Net Other current assets Other Assets, Current Total Current Assets Assets, Current, Total Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Intangible assets, net Other intangible assets - net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Goodwill Goodwill Other non-current assets Other Assets, Noncurrent TOTAL ASSETS Assets, Total LIABILITIES Liabilities [Abstract] Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Product warranty liability Product warranty liability current liabilities Product Warranty Accrual, Current Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Less: current maturities of long-term debt Current portion of long term debt Notes payable Notes Payable, Current Deferred revenue Deferred revenue current liabilities Deferred Revenue, Current Total Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Total Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current, Total Product warranty liability Product Warranty Accrual, Noncurrent Deferred revenue Deferred revenue non-current liabilities Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent Long term debt Long-term Debt Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent Other non-current liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent TOTAL LIABILITIES Liabilities, Total Commitments and contingencies (see NOTE M) Commitments and Contingencies STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common Stock, Value, Issued Common stock Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, none issued and outstanding Treasury Stock, Value Treasury stock Paid in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated deficit Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent, Total TOTAL LIABILITIES & STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities and Equity, Total Allowance for doubtful accounts receivables Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Common stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Preferred stock, par value Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock, shares outstanding Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net sales Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Cost of sales Cost of Goods Sold Gross profit Gross Profit Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Engineering - research and development Research and Development Expense Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Interest income Investment Income, Interest Interest Expenses Interest expense The cost of borrowed funds, hedge interest, and mark to market adjustments on interest rate swaps accounted for as interest expense charged against earnings during the period. Premiums and Expenses on Tender Offer for Long Term Debt Premiums and expenses on tender offer for long-term debt Premiums and expenses on tender offer for long-term debt. Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total Other (expense) income, net Income (loss) before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income tax benefit (expense) Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net income (loss) Net income (loss) Net income Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to common stockholders Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to common stockholders Earnings Per Share, Diluted Dividends declared per common share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract] CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Add (deduct) items included in net income not using (providing) cash: Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Amortization of intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Depreciation of property, plant and equipment Depreciation Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Loss on repurchases and redemptions of long-term debt Loss on repurchases of long-term debt Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Unrealized (gain) loss on derivatives Amortization of deferred financing costs Amortization of Financing Costs Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Other Noncash Income (Expense) Other Changes in assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Inventories Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Other assets and liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Additions of long-lived assets Collateral for Interest Rate Derivatives Collateral for interest rate derivatives Collateral for interest rate derivatives Proceeds from disposal of assets Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Net cash (used for) provided by investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Issuance of long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Early Repayment of Subordinated Debt Repurchases and redemptions of long-term debt Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Restructuring Costs Debt financing fees Deferred financing fees Repayments of Senior Debt Payments on long-term debt Repayments of Notes Payable Payments on notes payable Net cash used for financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Supplemental disclosures: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Interest Paid Interest paid Income Taxes Paid Income taxes paid Overview [Abstract] OVERVIEW Nature of Operations [Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Inventories [Abstract] INVENTORIES Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Abstract] GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Abstract] FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Debt [Abstract] DEBT Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Derivatives [Abstract] DERIVATIVES Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Product Warranty Liabilities/Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract] PRODUCT WARRANTY LIABILITIES Product Warranty Disclosure [Text Block] Other (Expense) Income, Net [Abstract] OTHER (EXPENSE) INCOME, NET Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Other Current Liabilities [Abstract] OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES Other Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block] EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Income Taxes [Abstract] INCOME TAXES Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions [Abstract] CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] EARNINGS PER SHARE Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Subsequent Events [Abstract] SUBSEQUENT EVENTS Subsequent Events [Text Block] Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation Policy Text Block Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation Basis of presentation and principles of consolidation. Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Components of Inventories Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Summary of goodwill and other intangible assets Schedule of Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Table Text Block] Summary of fair value of financial assets and (liabilities) Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Summary of Long-term debt and maturities Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Summary of the Company's interest rate derivatives Schedule of Interest Rate Derivatives [Table Text Block] Summary of the outstanding foreign currency forward contracts Schedule of Derivatives Instruments Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Summarizes the outstanding commodity swaps Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Derivative instruments and their impact on the financial condition Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Result of Operations Gain Loss Recognized on Derivatives [Table Text Block] Derivative instruments and their impact on the results of operations Schedule of derivative instruments in statement of result of operations gain loss recognized on derivatives. Summary of Product warranty liability activities Schedule of Product Warranty Liability [Table Text Block] Computation of deferred revenue for extended transmission coverage activity Deferred Revenue, by Arrangement, Disclosure [Table Text Block] Computation of Other (expense) income, net Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Table Text Block] Summary of other current liabilities Schedule of Other Assets and Other Liabilities [Table Text Block] Components of net periodic benefit expense Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of numerators and denominators used to calculate basic EPS and diluted EPS Schedule of Earnings Per Share Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Overview (Textual) [Abstract] Overview (Textual) [Abstract] Overview. Number of Employees Number of employees Number of employees. Transmission Product Lines Transmission product lines Transmission product lines. Total revenues generated in North America in 2011 Sales Revenue, Goods, Net, Percentage Independent Distributor and Dealer in Worldwide Locations Independent distributor and dealer in worldwide locations Independent distributor and dealer in worldwide locations. Different Product Models Different product models Different product models. Different Vehicle Configurations Different vehicle configurations Different vehicle configurations. Combinations of Engine Brands, Models and Ratings Combinations of engine brands, models and ratings Combinations of engine brands, models and ratings. Year of Introduction of Company Automatic Products Year of introduction of Company's automatic products Year of introduction of company automatic products. Components of inventories Inventory, Net [Abstract] Purchased parts and raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials, Gross Work in progress Inventory, Work in Process, Gross Service parts Other Inventories, Spare Parts, Gross Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Gross Schedule of Acquired Finite and Indefinite Lived Intangible Asset By Major Class [Table] Schedule of acquired finite and indefinite lived intangible asset by major class. Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Trade Name [Member] Trade Names [Member] Customer Relationships Military [Member] Customer relationships - military [Member] Customer relationships - military. Customer Relationships Commercial [Member] Customer relationships - commercial [Member] Customer relationships - commercial. Proprietary Technology [Member] Proprietary technology [Member] Proprietary technology. Non-compete Agreements [Member] Non-compete agreement [Member] Patented Technology Military [Member] Patented technology - military [Member] Patented technology - military. Tooling Rights [Member] Tooling rights [Member] Tooling rights. Patented Technology Commercial [Member] Patented technology - commercial [Member] Patented technology - commercial. Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite [Member] Unclassified Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Member] Finite and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite and indefinite lived intangible assets. Summary of goodwill and other intangible assets Intangible Assets, Net (Including Goodwill) [Abstract] Indefinite and Finite Lived Intangible Assets Gross [Abstract] Other intangible assets: Indefinite and finite lived intangible assets gross. Other Indefinite And Finite Lived Intangible Assets Gross Other intangible assets - gross Other indefinite and finite lived intangible assets gross. Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Less: accumulated amortization Expected useful life (years) Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Textual) [Abstract] Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Textual) [Abstract] Goodwill and other intangible assets. Net carrying value of our Goodwill and other intangibles Intangible Assets, Net (Including Goodwill) Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Summary of Fair Value of Financial Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Summary of fair value of financial assets and (liabilities) Summary of fair value of financial assets and liabilities. Cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Available-for-sale securities Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Derivative assets Derivative Assets Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Derivative liabilities Assets and Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure Total Assets and liabilities fair value disclosure. Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Senior secured credit facility term b one loan variable due two thousand fourteen [Member] Senior Secured Credit Facility Term B-1 Loan, variable, due 2014 [Member] Senior secured credit facility term b one loan variable due two thousand fourteen. Senior secured credit facility term b two loan variable due two thousand seventeen [Member] Senior Secured Credit Facility Term B-2 Loan, variable, due 2017 [Member] Senior secured credit facility term b two loan variable due two thousand seventeen. Senior cash pay notes fixed eleven point zero zero percent due two thousand fifteen [Member] Senior Cash Pay Notes, fixed 11.00%, due 2015 [Member] Senior cash pay notes, fixed eleven point zero zero percent due in two thousand and fifteen. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Long-term debt: Long-term Debt, by Current and Noncurrent [Abstract] Long Term Debt Current And Non Current Senior Notes, indebtedness associated with Allison Transmission Inc. Total long-term debt Long term debt current and non-current. Total long-term debt less current portion Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Allison Transmission Inc. [Member] Subsidiaries [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Maximum [Member] Minimum [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Senior Secured Credit Facility [Member] Line of Credit [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Extinguishment of Debt [Axis] Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain] Short-term notes [Member] Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] Long Term Debt Including Current Maturities (Textual) [Abstract] Debt (Textual) [Abstract] Long term debt including current maturities. Senior secured credit facility term b one due date Senior Secured Credit Facility Term B-1, due date Senior Secured Credit Facility Term B-1, Due date. Senior secured credit facility term b two due date Senior secured credit facility term B-2, due date Senior secured credit facility term b one due date. Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Principal amount percent Senior Notes Interest rate of Senior Notes Senior Notes Fixed Due Date Senior Notes, fixed due date Senior notes, fixed due date. Senior Cash Pay Notes Fixed Due Date Senior cash pay notes, fixed due date Senior cash pay notes, fixed due date. Senior Secured Credit Facility, maturity date Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date Line Of Credit Facility Extended Maturity Date Senior Secured Credit Facility, extended maturity date Senior secured credit facility, extended maturity date. Extended Senior Secured Credit Facility, principal amount Line of Credit Facility, Increase, Additional Borrowings Amortization Deferred Financing Fees Amortization deferred financing fees Amortization deferred financing fees. Extended Period of Amortization on Deferred Financing Fees Extended period of amortization on deferred financing fees Extended period of amortization on deferred financing fees. Weighted average rate on the Senior Secured Credit Facility Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Principal payments on term loans Line of Credit Facility, Periodic Payment, Principal Principal Payment Commenced Date Principal payment, commenced date Principal payment, commenced date. Revolving credit borrowings Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Letters of credit outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Available revolving credit facility Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Letters of Credit Letters of Credit Outstanding letter of credit commitments. Variable interest rate, margin over LIBOR Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Line of Credit Facility, commitment fee percentage Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage Maturity Date of Revolving Credit Borrowings Maturity date of revolving credit borrowings Maturity date of revolving credit borrowings. Amount Available for Discounted Voluntary Prepayments Pursuant to Auction Amount available for discounted voluntary prepayments pursuant to a Dutch auction Amount available for discounted voluntary prepayments pursuant to Dutch auction. Repurchase Of Term Loans Repurchase of term loans Repurchase of term loans. Amended Terms Including Extending Revolving Credit Facility End Period Amended revolving credit facility terms, including extending Term B-1 Loan, end period Amended terms including extending the revolving credit facility end period. Amended Terms Period Does Not Extended Amended revolving credit facility terms, Term B-1 Loan not extended, end period Amended terms, period does not extended. Current borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Increased Borrowing Capacity Increased borrowing capacity Increased borrowing capacity. Additional Deferred Financing Fees Additional deferred financing fees Additional deferred financing fees. Additional Deferred Financing Fees Expensed Additional deferred financing fees expensed Additional deferred financing fees expensed. Principal payments on the Senior Secured Credit Facility Line of Credit Facility, Annual Principal Payment Debt Related Commitment Fees and Debt Issuance Costs Losses associated with deferred debt issuance costs on principal payments Achieved Senior Secured Leverage Ratio Achieved senior secured leverage ratio Achieved senior secured leverage ratio. Required Senior Secured Leverage Ratio Required senior secured leverage ratio Required senior secured leverage ratio. Minimum Senior Secured Leverage Ratio Minimum senior secured leverage ratio Minimum senior secured leverage ratio. Senior Secured Leverage Ratio Basis Point Reduced Reduction in applicable margin based on senior secured leverage ratio Senior secured leverage ratio basis point reduced. Reduction in Commitment Fee Reduction in commitment fee based on senior secured leverage ratio Reduction in commitment fee. Redemption of Senior Notes Debt Instrument, Decrease, Repayments Loss on Redemption of Senior Notes Loss on redemption of Senior Notes Loss on redemption of senior notes. Short-term notes weighted average interest rate Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Long Term Debt Including Current Maturities (Additional Textual) [Abstract] Debt (Additional Textual) [Abstract] Long Term Debt Including Current Maturities. Fair value of long-term debt obligations Long-term Debt, Fair Value Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Interest rate swap d due two thousand thirteen [Member] Interest Rate Swap D, due 2013 [Member] Interest Rate Swap D, due 2013. Interest rate swap e due two thousand thirteen [Member] Interest Rate Swap E, due 2013 [Member] Interest Rate Swap E, due 2013. Interest Rate Swap F Due Two Thousand Thirteen [Member] Interest Rate Swap F, due 2013 [Member] Interest rate swap f due two thousand thirteen [Member] Interest Rate Swap G Due Two Thousand Thirteen [Member] Interest Rate Swap G, due 2013 [Member] Interest rate swap g due two thousand and thirteen. Interest Rate Swap H Due Two Thousand Fourteen [Member] Interest Rate Swap H, due 2014 [Member] Interest rate swap h due two thousand fourteen. Interest Rate Swap I Due Two Thousand Fourteen [Member] Interest Rate Swap I, due 2014 [Member] Interest rate swap I due two thousand fourteen. Interest Rate Swap J Due Two Thousand Fourteen [Member] Interest Rate Swap J, due 2014 [Member] Interest rate swap j due two thousand fourteen. Interest Rate Swap K Due Two Thousand Fourteen [Member] Interest Rate Swap K, due 2014 [Member] Interest rate swap k due two thousand fourteen. Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Summary of the Company's interest rate derivatives Summary of Derivative Instruments [Abstract] Notional Amount Notional Amount of Interest Rate Derivatives Fair Value Interest Rate Derivatives, at Fair Value, Net Outstanding foreign currency forward contracts [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Indian Rupee [Member] Indian Rupee (INR) [Member] Indian rupee. Japanese Yen [Member] Japanese Yen (JPY) [Member] Japanese yen. British Pound [Member] British Pound (GBP) [Member] British pound. Canadian Dollar [Member] Canadian Dollar (CAD) [Member] Canadian dollar. Derivative [Line Items] Summary of the outstanding foreign currency forward contracts Derivative, Fair Value, Net [Abstract] Notional Amount Notional Amount of Foreign Currency Derivatives Fair Value Notional Amount of Foreign Currency Fair Value Hedge Derivatives Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Aluminum [Member] Aluminum [Member] Aluminum. Steel [Member] Steel [Member] Steel. Natural Gas [Member] Natural Gas [Member] Natural Gas. Summarizes the outstanding commodity swaps Notional Amount of Derivatives [Abstract] Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount Commodity Volume Hedged Quantity Commodity Volume hedged. Fair value Derivative, Fair Value, Net Derivative [Table] Foreign currency contracts [Member] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Commodity contracts [Member] Commodity Contract [Member] Interest rate contracts [Member] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other current assets [Member] Other Current Assets [Member] Other Non Current Liabilities [Member] Other non-current liabilities [Member] Other non-current liabilities. Other Current Liabilities [Member] Other current liabilities [Member] Other current liabilities. Other current and non-current assets [Member] Other Assets [Member] Other current and non-current liabilities [Member] Other Liabilities [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative instruments and their impact on the financial condition Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments [Abstract] Derivative asset, Fair Value Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Net Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Net Derivative liability, Fair Value Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Other Expense Income Net [Member] Other (expense) income, net [Member] Other expense income. Interest expense [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Derivative instruments and their impact on the results of operations Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net [Abstract] Amount of (loss) gain recognized on derivatives not designated as hedging instruments recognized on derivatives Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net Other Non Current Assets [Member] Other non-current assets [Member] Other non-current assets. Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments at Fair Value Net Fair value of the derivative Derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments at fair value net. Derivatives (Additional Textual) [Abstract] Derivatives. Amount of Collateral Recorded in Other Current Assets Amount of collateral recorded in Other current assets Amount of collateral recorded in other current assets. Summary of product warranty liability activities Movement in Standard and Extended Product Warranty, Increase (Decrease) [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Ending balance Product Warranty Accrual Product Warranty Accrual, Payments Payments Increase in liability (warranty issued during period) Product Warranty Accrual, Warranties Issued Net adjustment to liability Product Warranty Accrual, Period Increase (Decrease) Accretion (for Predecessor liabilities) Product Warranty Accrual, Preexisting, Increase (Decrease) Computation of deferred revenue for ETC activity Movement in Deferred Revenue [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Ending balance Deferred Revenue Increases Deferred Revenue, Additions Deferred Revenue, Revenue Recognized Revenue earned Product Warranty Liabilities (Textual) [Abstract] Product Warranty Liabilities (Textual) [Abstract] Product warranty liabilities. Computation of Other Expense Income Net [Abstract] Computation of Other (expense) income, net Computation of Other expense income net. Termination of Sponsor services agreement Gain (Loss) on Contract Termination Initial Public Offering Fees and Expenses Initial public offering fees and expenses Initial public offering fees and expenses. Other Expense Income Net Vendor Settlement Vendor settlement Other Expense Income Net Vendor Settlement. Grant Program Income Grant Program income to Other (expense) income Grant Program income Grant Program income. Unrealized loss on derivative contracts Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives and Commodity Contracts Realized (loss) gain on derivative contracts Derivative, Gain on Derivative Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Loss on foreign exchange Other Other Nonoperating Income Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee, Sale of Stock by Subsidiary or Equity Investee [Table] Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock, Name of Transaction [Domain] IPO [Member] IPO [Member] Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items] Other Expense Income Net (Textual) [Abstract] Other (Expense) Income, Net (Textual) [Abstract] Other expense income net. Capitalized fees and expenses related to the initial public offering Payments of Stock Issuance Costs Sponsor Fees Paid to Terminate Services Agreement Payment to terminate the services agreement with sponsors Fee paid to Sponsors for terminating the services agreement Sponsor fees paid to terminate services agreement. Reduction of Basis of Capital Assets Purchased under Grant Program Reduction of basis of capital assets purchased under the Grant Program Reduction of the basis of capital assets purchased under grant program. Assets in Service under Grant Program Assets in service under the Grant Program Assets in service under grant program. Depreciation Related to Grant Program Depreciation related to grant program Depreciation related to grant program. Summary of Other Current Liabilities [Abstract] Summary of other current liabilities Summary of other current liabilities. Accrued Derivative Payable Accrued derivative payable Accrued derivative payable. Sales Allowances Sales allowances Sales allowances. Payroll and related costs Employee-related Liabilities, Current Accrued interest payable Interest Payable, Current Taxes payable Taxes Payable, Current Military Price Reduction Reserve Military price reduction reserve Military price reduction reserve. Vendor Buyback Obligation Vendor buyback obligation Vendor buyback obligation. Research and Development Payable Research and development payable Research and development payable. Other accruals Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Pension Plans [Member] Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Post-retirement Benefits [Member] Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Components of net periodic benefit expense Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Net Periodic Benefit Expense [Abstract] Net periodic benefit expense: Net periodic benefit expense. Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Expected return on assets Prior service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Loss Income Taxes (Textual) [Abstract] Income Taxes (Textual) [Abstract] Income taxes. Effective tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations Tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations Pretax Income Pretax income Pretax income. Liability for Unrecognized Tax Benefits Liability for unrecognized tax benefits Liability for unrecognized tax benefits. Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Executive Vice President Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer [Member] David Graziosi [Member] Executive vice president chief financial officer and treasurer. Seven Point One Two Five Percent Senior Notes [Member] Fixed7.125% Senior Notes [Member] Seven point one two five percent senior notes. Senior Notes [Member] Senior Notes [Member] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions (Textual) [Abstract] Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions (Textual) [Abstract] Certain relationships and related party transactions. Senior notes held by executive officers Notes Payable, Related Parties, Noncurrent Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions (Additional Textual) [Abstract] Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions (Additional Textual) [Abstract] Certain relationships and related party transactions. Sponsor Fees Paid For Services Agreement Fee paid to sponsors for the services agreement Sponsor fees paid for services agreement. Reconciliation of numerators and denominators used to calculate basic EPS and diluted EPS Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Dilutive effect stock-based awards Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements Diluted weighted average shares of common stock outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Debt Instrument, Face Amount Senior Secured Credit Facility term loan Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis Variable interest rate, description Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End Revolving credit borrowings, interest rate Amended Terms Including Extending Revolving Credit Facility, Start Period Amended revolving credit facility terms, start period Amended terms including extending revolving credit facility, start period. Payments to Acquire Projects Investments in technology related initiatives Payments of Dividends Dividend payments Entity Information [Line Items] Employee Benefit Plans [Abstract] Employee Benefit Plans (Textual) [Abstract] Employee Benefit Plans (Textual) [Abstract] Employee benefit plans. Defined Benefit Pension Plan Non Cash Settlement Charge Non-cash settlement charge Defined benefit pension plan non cash settlement charge. Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Change in discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements Settlement loss Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Net periodic benefit expense Net periodic benefit expense President and Chief Executive Officer [Member] Lawrence Dewey [Member] President and chief executive officer. Vice President Human Resource [Member] Robert M. Price [Member] Vice president human resource. Stock Split Ratio Split ratio of shares Stock split ratio. Underwriter [Member] Underwriter [Member] Underwriter. Schedule of Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee [Table] Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee [Line Items] Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Common stock issue during IPO Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Deferred income taxes, net Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent Deferred income taxes, net Impairment loss on investments in technology related initiatives Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gain (Loss), Excluding Other than Temporary Impairments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Transition Asset (Obligation), Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Net of Tax Loss on re-measurement of employee benefit plan Long Term Debt Premium And Expenses Of Tender Offer Premiums and expenses on tender offer for long-term debt Long term debt premium and expenses of tender offer. Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Reverse Stock Splits Conversion of non-voting common stock to common Initial Public Offer Price Of Common Stock Share price of common stock Initial public offer price of common stock. Conversion of non-voting common stock to common Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Stock Splits Percentage Of Annual Excess Cash Flow For Pre Payment Of Loan Annual excess cash flow to prepay term loan Percentage of annual excess cash flow for pre payment of loan. Impairment loss on investments in technology related initiatives Impairment of Ongoing Project Other expense (income), net Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation Loss on re-measurement of employee benefit plans (see note K) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Reduction to the Company's pension liability Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount Deferred tax asset benefits Investment In Technology Related Initiatives Investments Investment in technology related initiatives. Senior Cash Pay Notes Fixed Seven Point One Two Five Percent Due Two Thousand Nineteen [Member] Senior Cash Pay Notes, fixed 7.125%, due 2019 [Member] Senior cash pay notes fixed seven point one two five percent due two thousand nineteen. Investment in Convertible Loan and Equity Investment in convertible loan and equity. Investment in convertible loan and equity Matching Fund to be Received Under Grant Program Matching fund to be received under grant program. Matching fund to be received under grant program General Motors [Member] General motors. General Motors [Member] Product Warranty Liabilities (Additional Textual) [Abstract] Product warranty liabilities additional textual. Product Warranty Liabilities (Additional Textual) [Abstract] Product Warranty Accrual Reduction in Period Product warranty accrual reduction in period. Product warranty accrual reduction in period Product Warranty Accrual Reduction Due to Adjustment in Comprehensive Income Loss Product warranty accrual reduction due to adjustment in comprehensive income (loss) Product warranty accrual reduction due to adjustment in comprehensive income loss. Product Warranty Accrual Additional Reserve Product warranty accrual additional reserve. Product warranty accrual additional reserve Product Warranty Accrual Additional Reserve Charge to Comprehensive Income Loss Product warranty accrual additional reserve charge to comprehensive income (loss) Product warranty accrual additional reserve charge to comprehensive income loss. Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table] Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] Amount borrowed and repaid under line of credit facility. Amount Borrowed and Repaid Under Line of Credit Facility Amount borrowed and repaid under line of credit facility