CVTs
No fixed gears
CVTs are continuously variable transmissions—automatic transmissions that shift smoothly through an infinite range of gear ratios rather than stepping through fixed gears.
Unlike traditional automatics, CVTs use belts or pulleys to provide seamless acceleration without the characteristic shift points: The CVT kept the engine in its power band the whole way up the hill.
Common in economy cars and scooters for their fuel efficiency.
Having no gears
- pulleyGrooved wheel for rope
- belt-drivenPowered via looped strap
- automaticOperating without intervention
- NissanJapanese automaker
Subaru · Honda · Toyota · fuel efficiency · drivetrain · powertrain · torque converter · chain drive
Channeled wheel for rope
- toroidalDoughnut-form geometry
- hydrostaticOf fluid pressure at rest
- gear ratioTeeth count relationship
- lubricationCoating to reduce friction
gearless
Having no gears
- pulleyGrooved wheel for rope
- belt-drivenPowered via looped strap
- automaticOperating without intervention
Nissan · Subaru · Honda · Toyota · fuel efficiency · drivetrain · powertrain · torque converter · chain drive · stepless
sheave
Channeled wheel for rope
- toroidalDoughnut-form geometry
- hydrostaticOf fluid pressure at rest
- gear ratioTeeth count relationship
Driver-controlled gear systems