Are Belt-Driven CVTs the Only Type Used in Cars?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the types of continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) used in cars, exploring whether belt-driven CVTs are the only type currently implemented. Participants reference historical and contemporary applications, as well as the advantages and drawbacks of CVTs.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants mention that continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) are already being implemented in cars with constantly changing gear ratios.
  • One participant notes that DAF used a belt-driven system with two pulleys that expand or contract.
  • Another participant recalls that CVTs were tried in Formula 1 but were subsequently banned.
  • It is suggested that several production cars, particularly gas/electric hybrids, utilize CVTs.
  • Concerns are raised regarding the popularity of CVTs, with questions about their drawbacks, including belt-driven orientation, size, and weight.
  • One participant expresses uncertainty about whether belt-driven CVTs are the only type currently used in automobiles, recalling a bicycle that used a different CVT mechanism involving centrifugal force.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether belt-driven CVTs are the only type used in cars, with some suggesting alternative mechanisms exist while others assert that belt-driven systems dominate the automotive market.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention historical context and technical limitations of CVTs, including their longevity and specific drawbacks, but do not resolve the implications of these factors on current usage.

BasketDaN
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I have heard that this concept is already starting to be implimented in cars (constantly changing gear ratios), is this true?
 
Computer science news on Phys.org
it was done years ago by DAF, useing two pullies that expand or contract joined by a belt.
 
it was also tried in F1 but was banned
 
For googling purposes... this is commonly called a "Continuously Variable Transmission" or "CVT".
 
I believe that there are several production cars that use it. The gas/electric hybrids I think.
 
What became of it/ why is it not more popular?
 
Ahh I see, thanks. Does anybody know if this is the only way CVTs are currently made?
 
Originally posted by BasketDaN
Ahh I see, thanks. Does anybody know if this is the only way CVTs are currently made?

AFAIK, belt-driven CVT's are the only type being put in automobiles. However, I do recall seeing a bicycle that appearently used a CVT which employed centrifugal force on weights attached to the hub of the tires.
 

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