What is the difference between CVT and ECVT?

[MacKingston]

ECVT is a hybrid transmission integrated with an electric motor, and its structure is completely different from CVT. CVT, when compared to traditional AT transmissions, can be understood as a continuously variable transmission, hence its Chinese interpretation as a continuously variable transmission. The specific introduction is as follows: 1. The structure of CVT mainly consists of two sets of pulleys (drive pulley and driven pulley), a transmission belt (steel belt), oil pump, torque converter, actuating mechanism (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. 2. The structure of ECVT is much simpler. It does not have complex mechanisms such as clutches, torque converters, or gear shaft sets found in traditional transmission systems, but is composed of a set of planetary gears and two electric motors.

[OGia]

Let me talk about the difference between CVT and eCVT. From a technical perspective, they're really fascinating. CVT, called Continuously Variable Transmission, is used in regular gasoline cars. It uses a set of pulleys and a steel belt to adjust gears, making your drive smooth and fuel-efficient. But some people complain about the weird noise during acceleration, like it's slipping. eCVT, on the other hand, is specifically designed for hybrid vehicles, like Toyota's Prius. It uses electronically controlled planetary gears and motors to manage power transmission, without relying on traditional pulleys, so acceleration is quieter and more efficient. The core difference is that eCVT combines fuel and electricity, enabling smarter energy management, while CVT relies solely on the engine without any hybrid component. This means eCVT can silently drive on electricity in traffic jams, whereas CVT has to rely on gasoline. The downside is that CVTs may overheat and develop issues over time, and repairs can be expensive, while eCVT has a simpler, more reliable structure with lower maintenance costs—no wonder hybrids are becoming more popular. If you've driven both types, the silent start-stop feeling of eCVT will leave a deep impression on you.

[VonSteven]

As someone who frequently works on cars, I've noticed significant practical differences between CVT and eCVT transmissions. CVTs are used in conventional vehicles, relying on two conical pulleys and a steel belt to adjust speed ratios. When driving, you might sometimes feel the acceleration isn't as direct, almost like coasting. Common issues include pulley wear over time or noise development. eCVTs, however, are exclusively used in hybrid vehicles like Toyota's system, which incorporates planetary gear sets and small electric motors to blend power sources seamlessly. You'll experience no slipping sensation while driving, plus exceptional fuel efficiency. The key distinction is that eCVTs are more durable with fewer failures because they eliminate those wear-prone mechanical components. Maintenance simply involves basic electronic system checks, whereas CVTs require frequent fluid changes and belt inspections. In city driving, eCVTs operate quietly and economically in pure electric mode, while CVTs remain noisy and fuel-thirsty. Overall, eCVTs offer greater long-term reliability and cost savings—but they're only available in hybrid vehicles.

[Richardson]

Hey, I've personally compared CVT and eCVT while driving. CVT is the standard continuously variable transmission, which allows your car speed to change continuously but sometimes gives a sluggish feeling during acceleration. eCVT, used in hybrid vehicles, employs electronic control to seamlessly combine gasoline and electric power, resulting in smoother and quieter operation—like quick starts at traffic lights with no delay. The big difference is that eCVT has a simpler structure with fewer mechanical parts, making it more reliable and cheaper to maintain.

[AmyLynn]

From the perspective of automotive knowledge sharing, both CVT and eCVT are transmissions but with different designs. CVT is suitable for conventional gasoline vehicles, using a pulley system for gear shifting, which saves fuel but may compromise comfort. eCVT is specifically designed for hybrids, like Toyota's models, employing electronic integration to manage both electric and fuel power, enabling more precise speed control and higher efficiency. The main difference lies in eCVT's ability to intelligently switch between electric and fuel power, reducing emissions and noise, whereas CVT relies solely on the engine with limited shifting capabilities. This is crucial for eco-friendly mobility.