What are the types of continuously variable transmissions?

[ChristianDella]

Types of continuously variable transmissions: 1. Mechanical type: There are various forms, with the common one being the cone-block metal V-belt drive, used in automobiles; 2. Hydraulic transmission type: Used in engineering vehicles and agricultural machinery; 3. Electric type: Used in electric vehicles. The starting devices for automotive continuously variable transmissions come in the following three forms: 1. Electromagnetic clutch type: Large in mass and size, with low thermal load capacity; 2. Electronically controlled wet friction plate type: Compact in structure, fast response, and low energy loss; 3. Hydraulic torque converter type: High starting torque, excellent hill-start performance, easy driving, good creep performance, and capable of reducing vibrations and shocks caused by uneven engine torque.

[LaFrank]

Well, there are mainly several types of continuously variable transmissions (CVTs). I think the most common one is the belt-driven type, which changes the gear ratio by sliding a rubber belt between two conical pulleys. Many Japanese cars like Toyota use this type—it's affordable and provides smooth driving, but the belt is prone to wear and requires maintenance. The chain-driven type is more durable, with brands like Subaru and Nissan often using metal chains instead of belts. It offers stronger acceleration and is suitable for high-torque engines, though it adds a bit of weight to the vehicle. The hydrostatic type is relatively rare, with some Audi models using it. It adjusts via fluid pressure, operating quietly but with higher costs and maintenance hassles. Additionally, electromagnetic-driven CVTs are under research and may represent a future trend. Personally, I prefer the chain-driven type for its balance of reliability and driving experience, as it doesn’t require frequent checks like the belt-driven type. Overall, the choice depends on your driving habits: choose belt-driven for commuting, chain-driven for performance, and hydrostatic for luxury and quietness.

[VanReed]

As a car user, I've found that the type of continuously variable transmission (CVT) affects daily choices: Belt-driven CVTs are the most common, like in the Honda Fit—cost-effective and comfortable but may 'slip' during rapid acceleration. Chain-driven CVTs are often seen in Nissan models, offering sturdier chains for more stable acceleration, making them suitable for high-speed driving. Hydraulic CVTs, rarely found in Audi, provide smooth fluid conversion but are heavier with slightly higher fuel consumption. There are also experimental electromagnetic types not yet on the market. When buying a car, I focus on chain-driven CVTs because of their longer lifespan and lower maintenance, ideal for family trips—unlike belt-driven ones that can sometimes feel sluggish. Each type suits different scenarios: belt-driven for city driving, chain-driven for worry-free long-distance travel. Understanding these types helps avoid future hassles, like the high repair costs of hydraulic CVTs, requiring careful budgeting. Overall, the chain-driven type is my top choice.

[DiPeter]

There are many types of CVTs, and I'm familiar with several: belt-driven is the mainstream, which adjusts transmission via belts like in Toyota vehicles—economical but prone to belt aging requiring replacement; chain-driven uses metal chains for greater durability, commonly seen in Nissan vehicles; hydraulic-driven is used in some Audi models with fluid systems; electromagnetic types are still under development. Chain-driven handles torque well and accelerates quickly—I personally prefer this type. The choice affects driving experience and maintenance costs.