WHETHER to design an ideal transmission to overcome the deficiencies of the internalcombustion engine, or to reach a similar objective through engine improvement, is discussed in this paper.
The authors present a picture of the historical development of engine-transmission relationships from the earliest days of the industry down to current trends. They emphasize the increasing importance of fuel economy, and point the way toward an operational goal of 30 mpg of gasoline for the average car.
Other suggestions are offered for the reduction of engine friction which would eliminate high power losses, the reduction of wind resistance through the development of aerodynamic design, and the possibilities of the variable displacement engine eventuating in an ideal transmission which would be an extension of the crankshaft to the differential.