What is Continuously Variable Transmission?

[EllaRose]

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) refers to a transmission system that can continuously obtain any transmission ratio within the speed range. CVT, whose full English name is Continuously Variable Transmission, achieves the optimal match between the transmission system and engine conditions through continuous variation. Below are the advantages of CVT transmissions: 1. Since CVT transmissions do not have the gears found in conventional automatic transmissions, the resulting shift shock is eliminated, making the power output of CVT transmissions linear and providing a very smooth driving experience. 2. The CVT transmission system theoretically allows for an infinite number of gears, offering greater flexibility in gear settings. It makes it easier to achieve a balance between gear ratios, speed ratios, performance, fuel consumption, and exhaust emissions compared to traditional transmission systems. 3. The mechanical efficiency and fuel economy of CVT transmissions are significantly better than those of conventional automatic transmissions, second only to manual transmissions, offering much better fuel efficiency.

[PeterLee]

I've been driving a CVT model for three years, and this continuously variable transmission is like riding a geared bicycle, but much smarter. It transmits power through two conical pulleys and a steel belt, with the computer constantly adjusting the spacing to change gear ratios, making gear shifts completely imperceptible while driving. Starting from a traffic light is exceptionally smooth, and on the highway, the engine speed is about 15% lower than in a conventional automatic transmission, significantly saving fuel. However, during rapid acceleration, the engine sound is somewhat monotonous, lacking some driving excitement. Nissan and Toyota are the biggest fans of this system, and recently Hyundai and Kia have also started popularizing it, especially for urban commuter cars. Remember to change the dedicated transmission fluid on time during maintenance, otherwise, belt wear can shorten its lifespan.

[VonCooper]

Having repaired cars for over a decade, I've seen all kinds of transmissions. The structure of CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is actually quite ingenious. Unlike traditional transmissions with fixed gear ratios, it uses a hydraulic system to control the angle of the conical pulleys, achieving an infinite number of gear ratios. The advantages are obvious: power delivery is as smooth as silk, and fuel consumption is 5-8% lower than AT transmissions. However, the steel belt has limited torque capacity, so it's rarely used in high-displacement vehicles. In winter, remember to warm up the car for two minutes after a cold start and wait for the oil temperature to rise before driving to avoid abnormal wear on the pulleys. The lifespan of the steel belt is generally around 200,000 kilometers. Replacing an original steel belt can cost nearly 10,000 yuan, which is even more expensive than repairing an automatic transmission.