SUMMARY
The discussion clarifies the relationship between torque and RPM during gear shifts in vehicles. When shifting from lower to higher gears, torque at the drive wheels decreases while RPM increases, as torque is greatest in first gear. The fastest acceleration occurs at peak power RPM, not peak torque, due to the leverage provided by higher RPMs. This is particularly evident in continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), where maintaining engine RPM at peak power maximizes acceleration.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of vehicle dynamics and acceleration principles
- Familiarity with torque and horsepower concepts
- Knowledge of gear ratios and their impact on performance
- Experience with vehicle performance metrics, such as 0-60 times and quarter-mile times
NEXT STEPS
- Research the mechanics of continuously variable transmissions (CVTs)
- Study the relationship between torque curves and horsepower in automotive engines
- Explore how gear ratios affect acceleration and top speed
- Analyze dyno graphs to understand power and torque outputs across RPM ranges
USEFUL FOR
Automotive enthusiasts, performance tuners, and engineers interested in optimizing vehicle acceleration and understanding the dynamics of torque and RPM during gear shifts.