CVT vs Automatic Transmission: Which is Better? | You don’t have to be a super genius to understand the difference between CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission) and Automatic Transmission. However, it can be confusing for some car buyers to choose the perfect transmission for their needs.
Here Brankaspedia will try to explain everything you need to know about these two transmission systems so that you can make the right decision. Other than that, this article is for everyone who wants to become a bit familiar with the machines they use every day.
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Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) System
Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) is a type of automatic transmission because there is no clutch pedal. However, the mechanism of CVT and automatic transmission is different. The CVT does not have the special gear ratios found in the Automatic Transmission.
How CVT transmission works
CVT uses different gear ratios while driving. The transmission system uses a pair of two conical pulleys connected via a belt, usually made of steel. As the belt moves over the two pulleys, the diameter is constantly changing; therefore, it is known as Continuous Variable Transmission.
One pulley is connected to the input shaft coming directly from the engine, and the other pulley is connected to the output shaft. When the input shaft rotates, power transmits to the output shaft through the shaft.
The gear ratio is simply the ratio of the input speed to the output speed (input speed/output speed). Different gear ratios determine the speed of your car.
The diameter of the pulley determines the gear ratio. When the diameter of the input shaft is smaller than the diameter of the output shaft, the car is said to be in underdrive.
If the gear ratio is greater than 1 during underdrive, the vehicle is running at low speed. However, when the output diameter is larger than the input diameter, the gear ratio is less than 1, and it is an Overdrive condition. In this condition, the gear ratio is highest and the vehicle is moving at high speed.
Reverse gear for CVT
A small planetary system, similar to that in the automatic system, is used to obtain the reverse gear system in the CVT.
CVT advantages:
- Smooth and comfortable driving experience
- Switch to a different gear ratio
- Better fuel efficiency
Disadvantages of CVT:
- Even with improved technology, fan belts tend to wear and tear quickly
- it increases the cost of the vehicle
- Relatively Low Torque
automatic transmission
The automatic transmission system uses different gear ratios without shifting gears manually. It has no clutch pedal, making it the most relaxed and most comfortable transmission system.
How the Automatic Transmission System works
The automatic transmission system works on a planetary gear system. This system consists of four parts:
- Sun Gear
- Planet Gear
- Planet Carrier
- Ring Gear
Typically, a Planetary gear mechanism has three shafts: an input shaft, an output shaft, and an intermediate shaft connecting the two rods. Different gear ratios are based on different gear arrangements or gear movement. As an example:
Setting 1:
When the ring gear is stationary, and all other gears are moving. In this case, the gear ratio (Input Speed / Output Speed) is about 3, and it is the first gear in the automatic transmission system to deliver slow speeds.
Setting 2:
In this case, the complete mechanism moves as a unit, and the output speed becomes the same as the input speed. In addition, the gear ratio becomes 1. Also known as Direct Drive.
Setting 3:
The highest gear is obtained when the output speed becomes greater than the input speed. Here, the gear ratio becomes lower than 1. This part is also known as Overdrive.
Apart from these settings, there may be different speed ratios based on different settings. To find out more, watch the video below.
Automatic Transmission Reverse Gear
Reverse gear is achieved when the sun gear moves in the opposite direction, causing output in the opposite direction. One of the important parts of the Automatic Transmission system is the Torque Converter.
The torque converter functions as a clutch in an automatic transmission system. When the engine is connected to the transmission system, and when we apply the brakes, then to isolate the engine from the transmission, a torque converter is needed. In addition, it also multiplies the amount of Torque, thereby increasing performance.
Advantages of Automatic Transmission System:
- No sliding parts like in manual transmission
- No clutch pedal required
- Torque converter improves performance by multiplying the number of Torques.
- Better driving experience
Disadvantages of Automatic Transmission System:
- Parts such as the torque converter and planetary gear system add to the weight of the vehicle.
- Less efficiency on fuel.
- It is very difficult to repair if the transmission is damaged.
CVT vs Automatic Transmission: Which is Better?
It depends on one’s driving style; some prefer CVT, while some prefer automatic transmission.
However, if you want better fuel efficiency with a lightweight transmission, then CVT is the right one for you. If you want more power and feel the shifting of gears then the automatic transmission will suit you.
