A CVT, or continuously variable transmission, is a type of automatic transmission that seamlessly changes through an unending range of effective gear ratios while you drive, whereas other kinds of mechanical transmissions offer a fixed number of gear ratios and have hard shifts between each. The CVT is sometimes referred to as the shiftless transmission and is a type of automatic. The main difference between a CVT and a traditional transmission is that there are no gears inside the CVT; its completely sealed, so there are no gears that are constantly moving. It's actually a two-pulley system, some have valves, some have steel-plated chains.
A CVT does not use gears like a typical transmission. Rather, it uses two pulleys connected by a belt, which offers unparalleled flexibility that maintains constant angular velocity regardless of output speed. Additionally, a continuously variable transmission makes accelerating smooth and offers enhanced fuel economy. According to Carfax, one of the most significant advantages of having a CVT is that they are often more fuel-efficient than a regular automatic.
In summary, a CVT is a type of automatic transmission that offers a seamless range of effective gear ratios while driving, unlike traditional transmissions that have a fixed number of gear ratios and hard shifts between each. A CVT does not use gears but rather a two-pulley system connected by a belt, which offers unparalleled flexibility and enhanced fuel economy.
