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What is a CVT?
A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is a type of automatic transmission that provides seamless acceleration without the usual shifts felt in traditional automatics. Unlike transmissions with fixed gear ratios, a CVT can change its gear ratio continuously over a range of speeds, optimising engine performance and efficiency at any speed. This is achieved through a variety of designs that adjust the transmission’s output in response to driving conditions, allowing the engine to run at its most efficient RPM for a wide range of vehicle speeds.
How do CVTs work?
The general mechanism of a CVT involves two key components regardless of the specific type: a driving element connected to the engine and a driven element connected to the wheels. The connection between these elements is designed to vary the gear ratio dynamically. This is achieved without the distinct gear changes seen in conventional transmissions, offering a smooth transition across a wide range of speeds.
In operation, as the vehicle’s speed and driving conditions change, the CVT continuously adjusts the diameter of the pulleys (in the case of belt and pulley CVTs) or alters the contact points between components (as seen in toroidal CVTs), among other methods in different types of CVTs. This adjustment changes the transmission’s output, allowing the engine to run more efficiently by staying within an ideal RPM range for the given condition.
Types of CVTs
Belt and Pulley CVTs
The most common variant, it uses a belt that runs between two variable-width pulleys. Each pulley can adjust its effective diameter, changing the gear ratio continuously. This design is favoured for its simplicity and efficiency, making it a popular choice in passenger vehicles.
Toroidal CVTs
This design employs a set of discs and power rollers that transmit power by varying the contact points between them. Adjusting the angle of the rollers changes the gear ratio. Toroidal CVTs are known for handling higher torque levels and providing a compact design, though they can be more complex to manufacture and maintain.
Hydrostatic CVTs (HMT)
Hydrostatic transmissions use hydraulic fluids to transmit power. By varying the flow of fluid through a system of pumps and motors, they can continuously change output speed and torque. This type is especially suited for heavy-duty applications like agricultural machinery due to its durability and ability to manage high loads.
Variable Diameter Pulley CVTs (VDP)
Similar to belt and pulley systems but utilises different mechanisms for adjusting the pulleys’ sizes. These are less common and are used in specific industrial or automotive applications where unique solutions to power transmission are required.
Magnetic CVTs
A relatively new and experimental design, magnetic CVTs use magnetic fields to transfer power without physical contact. By adjusting the magnetic field’s intensity, the transmission alters the output speed and torque. This design promises lower maintenance and wear due to the lack of direct contact between moving parts.
What effects will it have in the game?
The introduction of Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) in War Thunder, currently exclusive to the Type 10, offers a glimpse into future vehicle performance enhancements. Vehicles with advanced transmission systems, like CVTs, can achieve significantly higher mobility levels. For example, despite having 300 less horsepower than the Type 90, the Type 10 boasts superior mobility thanks to its HMT system. This highlights the potential for future vehicles to leverage advanced transmissions for improved manoeuvrability and tactical advantages on the battlefield, setting a new standard for vehicle performance in-game.
If CVTs turn out to be too complex to be added just for one or two vehicles, a compromise might be to artificially increase the HP or other aspects of the engine and transmission to attempt to mimic the effects of the CVT.
