Hello spridgets,
yes, its on the idea of a split pulley on a snowmobile, there is
a "belt" that runs between the pulleys and the splits varry in
width depending upon the "desired" final drive ratio. the
problems have been many, including TORQUE, BELT WEAR, and thus
RELIABILITY...... however, the suburu JUSTY had one that worked
quite well, and both HONDA and AUDI have their unique solutions
including computerized control, and link belts, and chains..
the tests of the AUDI that i have seen show increased
acceleration AND fuel mileage, over BOTH automatic and manual
transmissions. ...
as an interesting side light, and engine is most effecient when
run FULL throttle, all systems being optimized for this
condition. the BEST fuel mileage is FULL throttle to 2000 rpms
then shift. the WORST is easing onto the throttle up to redline.
in fact, tests at BMW showed that full throttle to redline is
better (more effecient in terms of fuel mileage) than easing
onto the throttle and shifting at 2000 rpms.!!!!!!!!!
the CVT (computerized) allows the transmission to optimize the
gear ratio for the speed driven with the throttle request being
factored in. .. get in .. MASH the GAS .. the engine goes to
redline at ANY ratio or speed and away you go until you arrive
at the speed you wish to travel! OPTIMIZED!!!!!!!!!
whether they can get the RELIABILITY (having seeming solved the
torque problems) is something only time will tell.
--
Best regards,
Bill mailto:pythias@pacifier.com
'66 Sprite
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