What Is a CVT Transmission?

While cars certainly look a lot different than they did a century ago, their inner workings actually haven’t changed that much. One component that has only evolved in the last few decades or so is the transmission. A six-speed transmission, for example, is still common, but another type is starting to become prevalent: the CVT transmission. Learn what this term means and how it works with Mauer GMC.

CVT Transmission Details

CVT is short for “continuously variable transmission.” Most transmissions have a fixed number of gear ratios that have hard shifts between each. A CVT, however, offers an unending range of effective gear ratios while you drive, and changes through them seamlessly.

How a CVT Works

With a traditional transmission, several different parts are used to allow the vehicle to shift between a range of gears. A CVT utilizes a pulley system that consists of cones connected with a chain belt. The cones move to either increase or decrease the belt diameter in order to change gear ratios. This allows for quicker shifting and extra power. Because one pulley is attached to the engine and the other sends power to the wheels, the CVT provides fast and strong acceleration.

Benefits of a CVT

There are several advantages of having a CVT in your vehicle. First, it helps improve fuel economy thanks to its faster shifting. It also makes driving up steep roads easier as well, because a CVT finds the exact ratio needed extremely fast. A CVT also provides a smoother ride than a traditional transmission, as there aren’t any hard shifts.

Learn More About a CVT Transmission at Mauer GMC

Interested in learning more about a CVT or testing out some GMC models that have this transmission? Contact Mauer GMC in Inver Grove Heights, MN today!