Is the Elantra CVT transmission equipped with a steel belt or a chain?
2 Answers
The Elantra CVT transmission uses a chain. Here is relevant information about CVT: 1. The principle of CVT involves an input shaft on one side and an output shaft on the other, connected by a pressure steel belt in the middle. By adjusting the working radius of the pressure steel belt, different transmission ratios are achieved. The pressure steel belt operates between two sets of cone discs. One half of each set of cone discs can move within a small range. When the cone discs move toward the center, they squeeze the pressure steel belt, increasing its working radius and thus enabling continuously variable transmission. 2. The pressure steel belt consists of hundreds of special high-strength steel plates arranged horizontally, connected by two sets of high-strength flexible steel belt rings. This design ensures both flexibility and rigidity during rotation. In fact, power transmission relies more on thrust than pull, and the horizontally arranged steel plates ensure sufficient friction. Combined with the strong squeezing force from the cone discs, this effectively guarantees power transmission. 3. The engine can maintain the maximum power speed continuously, allowing it to operate at the most fuel-efficient speed. The CVT transmission changes the output shaft speed without interrupting power, unlike traditional transmissions that cut power during gear shifts to change gear ratios. Currently, the fuel efficiency of CVT transmissions is only slightly worse than that of manual transmissions.
Well, I've paid special attention to this transmission issue while driving the Hyundai Elantra. It uses a chain, not the belt type. The chain design is more robust and durable, capable of handling greater horsepower, providing smoother acceleration, especially noticeable during starts and overtaking with quicker power response, reducing slippage or jerking. After driving it for several years, the transmission has had no major issues, with minimal chain wear and low maintenance costs. Hyundai's use of chain-type CVT in the Elantra aims to enhance reliability and fuel efficiency—fuel consumption performs quite well, averaging around 6-7 liters in city traffic jams. However, chain transmissions also have limitations, such as slightly slower starts in extremely cold weather. It's advisable to regularly check the fluid to ensure long-term performance stability, given the chain's complex structure. But overall, it's much better than belt-type transmissions, offering a more reassuring driving experience.