A multiple stage transmission of a planetary design having first, second and third planetary gear sets (P1, P2, P3), at least first, second, third, fourth, fifth sixth rotatable shafts (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6), first and second brakes (03, 04)and first, second, third and fourth clutches (14, 15, 36, 56). Selective engagement of the planetary gear sets (P1, P2, P3), the rotatable shafts (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,), the brakes (03, 04) and the clutches (14, 15, 36, 56) produces different reduction ratios between the drive shaft and the driven shaft such that at least seven forward gears and at least one reverse gear are achieved.