What is the difference between CVT and ECVT?
2 Answers
Here is a related introduction to the differences between CVT and ECVT: 1. Structural differences: The structure of CVT mainly consists of two sets of pulleys (drive pulley, driven pulley), a transmission belt (steel belt), oil pump, torque converter, actuators (valve body, oil circuit), sensors, control computer, etc. The composition is relatively complex, and the steel belt has limited torque capacity, so it is generally only used in small vehicles as a transmission system. The structure of ECVT is much simpler. It does not have complex mechanisms such as clutches, torque converters, or gear shafts found in traditional transmission systems. It is composed of a set of planetary gears and two motors. 2. Different working principles: In CVT technology, Motor 2 is responsible for starting, low-speed driving, and hybrid driving; Motor 1 is mainly responsible for starting the engine and generating electricity. The engine does not directly drive the wheels in most cases. The engine is connected to the star carrier, Motor 1 is connected to the sun gear, Motor 2 is connected to the outer ring gear, and the outer ring gear is connected to the power output shaft. ECVT not only transmits power but also couples the energy of the engine and the motor to achieve power output. Therefore, it is actually a power combination system, specifically designed as a power distribution mechanism for hybrid vehicles. 3. Different power solutions: ECVT can also achieve continuously variable transmission by integrating motors. This transmission structure includes a planetary gear set and two motors, without a clutch or torque converter. It couples the power output of the engine and provides the power output of the motor through the motors. ECVT is not actually a transmission element but a power element, more accurately described as a power distributor. CVT refers to the ordinary mechanical continuously variable transmission.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, CVT is that kind of continuously variable transmission that changes gear ratios via pulleys and steel belts, providing smooth acceleration without jerks, though sometimes with a slight humming sound. ECVT, on the other hand, is mainly used in hybrid vehicles like the Toyota Prius. It doesn't rely on steel belts but instead uses electric motors to control planetary gear sets, making it super quiet at startup and low speeds, with more responsive throttle and a completely different driving feel. The difference lies in ECVT being more advanced, capable of seamlessly handling electric drive, making it ideal for urban conditions—just a more comfortable ride. Overall, ECVT makes cars more efficient and modern. When choosing a car, it depends on your lifestyle: for city commuting, ECVT is the better pick; otherwise, consider a regular CVT vehicle.
