Performance of CVT Transmissions

Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT's) have become a part of many discussions in Automotive circles today while on the horizon there appears to be units that are approaching production status. An analytical method has been used to determine Fuel Economy - Performance trade-offs on drivetrain component features including, ratio range, number of ratio steps, clutched torque converters, and Continuously Variable Transmissions. Indications from both the analytical approach as well as vehicle tests are that todays conventional transmission concepts will still be competitive with Continuously Variable Units.