What does the CVT continuously variable transmission on a car refer to?

[EvanLynn]

CVT continuously variable transmission does not have specific gears. In operation, it is similar to an automatic transmission, but the change in speed ratio is different from the gear-shifting process of an automatic transmission; instead, it is continuous, thus ensuring sustained and smooth power delivery. Here are some relevant details: 1. In a CVT transmission system, traditional gears are replaced by a pair of pulleys and a steel belt. Each pulley actually consists of two conical discs forming a V-shaped structure. The engine shaft is connected to the smaller pulley, which drives the larger pulley through the steel belt. 2. The secret lies in the special pulley: The construction of the CVT's transmission pulley is quite unique, divided into movable left and right halves that can move closer together or apart. The conical discs can tighten or expand under hydraulic pressure, squeezing the steel belt to adjust the width of the V-shaped groove. When the conical discs move inward to tighten, the steel belt is pushed outward (centrifugally) under the pressure of the discs, and conversely, it moves inward when the discs move apart.

[RhettMarie]

Speaking of CVT continuously variable transmissions, I have deep personal experience. This thing drives incredibly smoothly, with no noticeable gear shift jerks at all. Last time I drove a friend's car on mountain roads, the tachometer stayed remarkably stable when I stepped on the gas, unlike traditional transmissions that constantly fluctuate. The principle is quite clever - using two pairs of adjustable conical pulleys clamping a steel belt to vary the transmission ratio based on throttle input. It's like having infinite gears, keeping the engine always at the most economical RPM. The fuel efficiency is truly noticeable - my compact car gets under 7L/100km in city driving. However, when fully loaded climbing hills, the steel belt might slip slightly with increased noise. For daily commuting it's absolutely sufficient, especially in traffic jams where it's much more comfortable than manual transmissions.

[VonCecilia]

Over the years working on cars, I've disassembled many CVT transmissions. Its most distinctive feature is the absence of gears, unlike AT transmissions that rely on planetary gear sets for shifting. The core components are two hydraulically controlled conical pulleys with a high-strength steel belt in between. When gently pressing the accelerator, the driving pulley narrows while the driven pulley widens, gradually increasing the gear ratio. A hard press on the pedal reverses this, instantly altering the gear ratio for acceleration. This design offers high transmission efficiency with minimal power loss, but the downside is its limited torque capacity. I've seen numerous cases where aggressive driving led to belt wear, requiring replacement of the entire pulley and belt assembly during repairs—costs that can approach the price of a new car. For daily driving, remember to regularly change the dedicated transmission fluid and have it inspected every 40,000 kilometers for safety.

[ReidMarie]

When selling cars, I often tell customers that a CVT is like a smart treadmill. The engine is the runner, and the gear ratio is the treadmill's incline. The system calculates the optimal pace in real-time, with changes in incline being completely smooth and imperceptible. The most noticeable advantage in actual driving is fuel efficiency, especially in urban traffic congestion. A 1.6L engine with a CVT can save over 1 liter of fuel per 100 kilometers compared to an AT transmission. Nowadays, most Japanese cars in the 100,000 yuan range come standard with CVT, making it particularly suitable for family use. However, performance enthusiasts might find it lacking in gear-shifting excitement, and the engine sound can be monotonous during rapid acceleration. Fortunately, newer CVTs come with simulated gear functions, and pressing the paddle shifters instantly adds a sporty feel.