Variable transmission (CVT)
* Operating principle: A continuously variable transmission (CVT) uses two variable diameter pulleys connected by a flexible belt. The gear ratio is changed by changing the diameters of the pulleys, allowing for smooth acceleration without interruption.
*Features:
* Smooth and effortless acceleration
* Better fuel efficiency
* Less engine wear
* Flaws:
* Less durable than traditional gearboxes
*Not suitable for high performance vehicles
Automatic transmission (AT)
* Operating principle: Automatic transmission uses planetary gears and a torque converter to change the gear ratio. The torque converter transfers torque from the engine to the gearbox, providing smooth traction and reducing vibration.
*Features:
* Smooth and comfortable gear shifting
* Makes driving easier
*More durable than CVTs
* Flaws:
* Less economical than CVT
* More complex and expensive to maintain
*Does not provide the same smooth ride as a CVT
Ways to distinguish a CVT from an automatic:
* Driving Feel: The CVT provides smooth and linear acceleration without the feeling of shifting gears. The automatic transmission, on the other hand, provides sharper gear changes.
* Engine sound: When accelerating with a CVT, the engine speed increases gradually and smoothly. When using an automatic transmission, the engine speed will increase intermittently when changing gears.
* Gear Shift Lever: A CVT usually does not have a traditional gear selector lever. Instead, a selector is used that allows the driver to select a driving mode (eg D, S, L). Automatic transmissions usually have a traditional gear lever that allows the driver to manually select gears.
* Technical characteristics table: The technical characteristics of the car will indicate the type of gearbox — CVT or automatic.