What is the working principle of CVT?
2 Answers
CVT working principle: In a CVT transmission system, traditional gears are replaced by a pair of pulleys and a steel belt. Each pulley is actually a V-shaped structure composed of two conical discs. The engine shaft connects to the small pulley, which drives the large pulley through the steel belt. The secret lies in the special pulley: the CVT's drive pulley has a unique structure, 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 and tighten, the steel belt is pushed outward away from the center under the pressure of the discs. Conversely, it moves inward toward the center. This changes the diameter of the disc driven by the steel belt, thereby altering the gear ratio.
CVT sounds high-tech, but it's actually a type of automatic transmission, just smoother than traditional automatics. Instead of fixed gears, it uses a system of two conical pulleys and a steel belt. One pulley connects to the engine, the other to the wheels, sliding back and forth to change diameters. Engine power is transmitted via the steel belt, and as pulley diameters shift, gear ratios change seamlessly, eliminating any bumps or jerks during acceleration. The biggest advantage is its city-driving friendliness—keeping the engine in the optimal RPM range without wasting time shifting. Japanese brands like Honda and Toyota often use CVTs to boost fuel efficiency. But a heads-up: if the steel belt wears excessively, early maintenance is key—don’t wait for a breakdown. Overall, CVT makes driving easier and more worry-free.
