DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION ASPECTS OF A ZERO INERTIA CVT FOR PASSENGER CARS

This paper concentrates on the design and construction aspects of a transmission for a mid-class passenger car with internal combustion engine. The transmission, consisting of a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with a Van Doorne V-belt, a planetary gear set and a compact steel flywheel is used to prove the concept of mechanical torque assist. The design goal is to obtain a proof of concept transmission with maximal efficiency, using proven transmission technology. With the developed so called Zero Inertia CVT, the fuel economy of the car is improved by operating the engine at its fuel optimal operating line. To achieve a good vehicle acceleration response, the flywheel assists the powertrain mechanically.