Development of a Hybrid Powertrain System Using CVT in a Minivan

Toyota has developed and confirmed the efficiency of a hybrid system using a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for relatively large vehicles like minivans. The fuel economy is double that of vans of the same class (in the Japan 10-15 test mode), and the system meets the emissions requirements for the U-LEV category. The hybrid system is configured for four-wheel drive. The front drive unit has a gasoline engine and an electric motor that are connected to a power-switching device, the output from which is conveyed to the CVT. The rear drive unit has an electric motor and a reduction gear that are independent of the front unit.