What does CVT continuously variable transmission mean?
2 Answers
CVT continuously variable transmission refers to "mechanical continuously variable transmission", commonly known as the CVT gearbox. The main components of a CVT system include the driving pulley set, driven pulley set, metal belt, and hydraulic pump. It transmits power by matching the belt with variable working diameters of the driving and driven pulleys, enabling the transmission system to achieve optimal matching with engine conditions. Unlike conventional transmissions that use multiple gear sets of different sizes engaging and disengaging to form various speed ratios, the CVT principle operates similarly to how bicycle pedals drive the wheels at different speeds through chain and sprockets of varying sizes. Since different forces exert varying thrusts on each gear set, the output speed of the transmission changes accordingly, thus achieving stepless rotation without fixed gear ratios.
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is a continuously changing transmission technology that eliminates fixed gears, making vehicle acceleration or deceleration very smooth without any jerking. I have personally driven this type of car for five years and find it particularly effortless for city commuting, with smooth starts and stops. The computer automatically adjusts the engine speed, helping me save a lot on fuel costs. However, sometimes during sudden acceleration, the engine noise increases, sounding a bit strange—almost like a high-speed spinning electric fan. In terms of maintenance, it's essential to change the CVT-specific fluid regularly, with recommended servicing every two years or 40,000 kilometers; otherwise, the transmission may slip or develop issues. Overall, this design is suitable for those who prioritize smooth driving and fuel efficiency, especially for congested urban road conditions.
