RK Current metal belt & chain technology can support most automobile applications with engines as large as a V6, but larger V8 engine automobiles have to use step ratio automatic transmissions.
The CVT2 transmission in our Dodge Caliber and Jeep Compass & Patriot use a torque converter (like a step ratio automatic transmission) for torque multiplications during acceleration from a stop, but the CVT2 torque converter has a low vehicle speed lock-up clutch control for improved fuel economy.
Also, the CVT2 enables our engine controls to cut fuel when our vehicles decelerate or coast, which further reduces fuel consumption. Overall, our CVT2 has been confirmed to have reduced fuel consumption by approximately 6%.
In addition, Chrysler is the first OEM to utilize the larger CVT's ratio range (of approximately 6:1 versus 4:1 for our 4 speed automatic transmissions) in the off-road Jeep Patriot for trail rated capability without the need for a transfer case (which has additional gearing).
JP What about maintenance? Do they pose any more (or less) in terms of maintenance than a normal auto-box?
RK Because there are fewer moving parts, the CVT 2 is less complicated than traditional transmissions but scheduled maintenance is about the same.
JP A CVT transmission feels quite different from an automatic, because it doesn't shift. It's not everyone's cup of tea. How much effort is made, to make the CVT feel less "different"? Does the average consumer mind if their transmission doesn't shift gears?
RK Actually we're finding most customers don't notice the difference, and are pleased with our CVT calibrations & how smooth the transmission shifts (which of course it actually doesn't). If an uninformed consumer were to drive one of our Dodge Calibers or Jeep Compass / Patriots with the Autostick option, they would probably tell you it has a very smooth shifting 6 speed automatic transmission that you can also shift manually.
JP CVT's with a manual-shift mode? How do you manually shift a transmission with no gears?
RK We can calibrate the transmission controller to hold certain ratios inside the CVT 2 (The cone position stays constant). The transmission controller has been preprogrammed with 6 constant speed ratios in the manual-shift mode, so if the customer wishes to operate in a sport mode, they can.
JP Will we see more and more vehicles with CVT's available from Chrysler?
RK There are many new transmission technologies that we are evaluating and/or developing. CVT's are just one type of automatic transmission that we're currently using to help meet stricter fuel economy requirements & customer expectations.
photo:Justin Pritchard
The CVT2 transmission in our Dodge Caliber and Jeep Compass & Patriot use a torque converter (like a step ratio automatic transmission) for torque multiplications during acceleration from a stop, but the CVT2 torque converter has a low vehicle speed lock-up clutch control for improved fuel economy.
Also, the CVT2 enables our engine controls to cut fuel when our vehicles decelerate or coast, which further reduces fuel consumption. Overall, our CVT2 has been confirmed to have reduced fuel consumption by approximately 6%.
In addition, Chrysler is the first OEM to utilize the larger CVT's ratio range (of approximately 6:1 versus 4:1 for our 4 speed automatic transmissions) in the off-road Jeep Patriot for trail rated capability without the need for a transfer case (which has additional gearing).
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| 2007 Jeep Compass |
JP What about maintenance? Do they pose any more (or less) in terms of maintenance than a normal auto-box?
RK Because there are fewer moving parts, the CVT 2 is less complicated than traditional transmissions but scheduled maintenance is about the same.
JP A CVT transmission feels quite different from an automatic, because it doesn't shift. It's not everyone's cup of tea. How much effort is made, to make the CVT feel less "different"? Does the average consumer mind if their transmission doesn't shift gears?
RK Actually we're finding most customers don't notice the difference, and are pleased with our CVT calibrations & how smooth the transmission shifts (which of course it actually doesn't). If an uninformed consumer were to drive one of our Dodge Calibers or Jeep Compass / Patriots with the Autostick option, they would probably tell you it has a very smooth shifting 6 speed automatic transmission that you can also shift manually.
JP CVT's with a manual-shift mode? How do you manually shift a transmission with no gears?
RK We can calibrate the transmission controller to hold certain ratios inside the CVT 2 (The cone position stays constant). The transmission controller has been preprogrammed with 6 constant speed ratios in the manual-shift mode, so if the customer wishes to operate in a sport mode, they can.
JP Will we see more and more vehicles with CVT's available from Chrysler?
RK There are many new transmission technologies that we are evaluating and/or developing. CVT's are just one type of automatic transmission that we're currently using to help meet stricter fuel economy requirements & customer expectations.
photo:Justin Pritchard