Top technologies of 2010

Abridged versions of the most significant innovations as voted on by readers. To read the full versions of the year's top technologies, including interviews with engineers, visit the website at the end of each story.

Carraro DriveTech unveiled a concept transaxle designed for agricultural and other off-highway applications. The transaxle, named VaryT, introduces a Torotrak toroidal transmission in place of a hydrostatic/shunted hydrostatic drive in a transaxle casing.

The VaryT's variator is a very high efficiency mechanical unit across a wide speed range, which is unlike some hydrostatic options. Its power density allows for a compact overall transmission, suitable for small tractors.