What is CVT Gearbox? Operating Principle and Advantages and Disadvantages

Introduction

In the modern automobile industry, CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is increasingly widely used thanks to its ability to bring a smooth driving experience and superior fuel economy. This article will help you understand the operating mechanism, structure as well as the advantages and disadvantages of this special type of gearbox.

1. What is a CVT gearbox?

CVT stands for "Continuously Variable Transmission". Unlike an automatic transmission (AT) which has specific gears (1, 2, 3, D...),.

CVT works by continuously changing the transmission ratio thanks to the pulley and belt system, helping the vehicle operate smoothly and flexibly.

2. Structure and operating principle of CVT gearbox

2.1. Basic structure

The CVT transmission consists of three main components:

- Drive Pulley:Connects to the motor shaft.
- Driven Pulley:Connects to the drive shaft to the wheel.
- Metal belt:Runs between two pulleys to transmit power and change the gear ratio.
Each pulley has two movable cones to change the effective diameter during operation.

2.2. Operating principle

When the vehicle accelerates or decelerates, the hydraulically controlled ECU system changes the distance between the conical faces of the pulley, changing the effective diameter that the belt contacts. When the driving pulley increases in diameter, the driven pulley decreases and vice versa. As a result, the transmission ratio changes continuously, without the “stepping of gears” like a traditional gearbox.

3. Outstanding advantages of CVT gearbox

- Smooth shifting:No jerk or lag felt when shifting gears.
- Fuel economy:Helps the engine operate at optimal rpm range.
- Simpler design:Few mechanical gears, easy to manufacture.
- Optimized for urban mobility:Flexible operation under continuous stop-start conditions.

4. Disadvantages to note

- Torque limit:Not suitable for vehicles with high power engines or heavy trucks.
- Driving feeling is not "exciting":Lacks the strong acceleration feeling like AT or MT gearbox.
- High repair costs:When belts and pulleys fail, replacement costs are very expensive.
- Regular maintenance required:Hydraulic systems and belts should be checked and replaced periodically.

5. Popular car models using CVT gearbox

CVT gearboxes are equipped on many car lines from popular to high-end, including:

- Toyota:Vios, Corolla Altis, Corolla Cross
- Honda: City, Civic, CR-V
- Nissan:Almera, X-Trail
- Mitsubishi: Xpander, Outlander
- Subaru: XV, Forester
- Hyundai/Kia:Some models use iVT gearbox (variant of CVT)
- Hybrid vehicles: Toyota Prius, Corolla hybrid, Lexus UX250h…

6. Is CVT suitable for all types of vehicles?

The answer isAre notCVT is mainly suitable for:

- City car, small to mid size sedan.
- Priority drivercomfort, fuel economy, not too focused on sporty driving feel or great traction.
- On the contrary, for high-performance vehicles, trucks, pickup trucks or off-road SUVs – where high torque and quick response are required – a dual-clutch transmission (DCT), traditional automatic transmission (AT) or manual transmission (MT) is still the better choice.

7. Notes on using and maintaining CVT gearbox

- Regularly change gearbox oilas recommended by the manufacturer (usually 40,000 – 60,000 km).
- Do not accelerate suddenlyRegularly, limit speeding when heavily loaded.
- Avoid floodingor to operate the gearbox when the oil is not at operating temperature.
- Use the right type of oil specifically for CVT gearboxes, absolutely do not mix with AT gearbox oil.

Conclude

CVT transmission is one of the important steps forward in transmission technology, providing a smooth, efficient and fuel-saving driving experience. However, to ensure the longevity and performance of the transmission, it is extremely important to understand the operating mechanism, choose the right type of oil and perform regular maintenance.

If you are looking for the optimal CVT transmission care and protection solution, please contact Gartz for advice on specialized gear oil lines - researched and manufactured using German technology, specifically for hot and humid climate markets like Vietnam.

Gartz – Quality makes the brand!