A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is an automated transmission that can change through a continuous range of gear ratios. Unlike other transmissions that provide a limited number of gear ratios in fixed steps, a CVT uses pulleys and a steel band instead of traditional fixed gears. The flexibility of a CVT with suitable control may allow the engine to operate at a constant angular velocity while the vehicle moves at varying speeds. CVTs are used in cars, tractors, side-by-sides, motor scooters, snowmobiles, bicycles, and earthmoving equipment.
Here are some pros and cons of CVT transmissions:
Advantages of CVT Over Automatic Transmissions
- Provides smooth, stepless gear changes
- Automatically adjusts to your driving
- Improves fuel efficiency by containing RPMs, or engine speed
Disadvantages of CVT Over Automatic Transmissions
- Can feel less responsive than traditional automatic transmissions
- Can produce a "rubber band" effect when accelerating
- Can be more expensive to repair than traditional automatic transmissions
The most common type of CVT uses a V-belt which runs between two variable-diameter pulleys. The pulleys consist of two cone-shaped halves that move together and apart. The V-belt runs between these two halves, so the effective diameter of the pulley is dependent on the distance between the two halves.
