Which is better, AT or CVT gearbox?
When it comes to choosing a gearbox, many consumers struggle to choose between AT and CVT gearboxes. So, which of these two gearboxes is better?The following will be compared from the following aspects.
1.Transmission mode.
The AT gearbox uses a hydraulic torque converter to transmit power, and the speed and torque are changed through a planetary gear set. The CVT gearbox uses steel belts and pulleys to transmit power, and the speed and torque are changed by changing the contact radius between the steel belt and the pulleys. Therefore, the transmission of the AT transmission is more complex, while the transmission of the CVT transmission is simpler.
2.Transmission efficiency.
CVT gearboxes are more efficient because they don't have complex components such as planetary gearsets and torque converters, so they are more fuel-efficient. The transmission efficiency of the AT gearbox is relatively low, because its torque converter has a low transmission efficiency at low speeds, and the planetary gear set is prone to losses.
3.Ride smoothness.
The CVT gearbox can achieve continuously variable speed within a certain range, so the driving smoothness is good. The AT gearbox adopts a step-shift transmission, which will have a certain sense of impact when changing gears, and the driving smoothness is relatively poor.
4.Carrying capacity.
AT gearboxes have a strong load carrying capacity and are suitable for a wide range of vehicle models and engine types. The CVT gearbox, on the other hand, has a relatively weak carrying capacity and is suitable for small-displacement models and naturally aspirated engines.
5.Repair costs.
The repair cost of the CVT gearbox is lower because of its simple structure and it is not easy to be damaged. The maintenance cost of AT gearboxes is relatively high due to their complex construction and the need to regularly replace components such as torque converters and transmission oil.
To sum up, both AT and CVT transmissions have their own advantages and disadvantages. When choosing, consumers should choose the right type of transmission according to their needs and vehicle model. If you need higher transmission efficiency and better driving smoothness, you can choose the CVT gearboxIf you need a higher load capacity and more stable driving performance, you can choose an AT gearbox.