In the previous article, we learned about the maintenance issues of automatic transmissions. As we all know, automatic transmissions are also divided into AT, CVT, DCT, and AMT. Each transmission has corresponding oil and cannot be added incorrectly. With the development of hybrid and electric vehicles, another gearbox called E-CVT has emerged. So is E-CVT the same as CVT, and what are the differences? This issue is crucial as it determines what product to use during maintenance. If added incorrectly, the consequences can be very serious.

This issue has been discussed once before, and this time many friends have used our Precision Oil Assistant to check the matching oil of the gearbox. The E-CVT gearbox matches the transmission oil of AT, but he couldn't figure it out. He gave feedback that the Precision Oil Assistant was wrong and should use CVT gearbox oil. The important thing is to say it three times and click on the blackboard - E-CVT gearbox uses AT gearbox oil! E-CVT transmission uses AT transmission oil! E-CVT transmission uses AT transmission oil! Be sure to remember! The benchmark for Wells products is our ATF series. Now let me take a closer look at why?

Firstly, E-CVT transmissions are mostly used in hybrid cars such as Toyota and Honda, and the term E-CVT transmission can always be found in their powertrain. At first glance, E-CVT only has an additional "E -" compared to CVT, as if it is closely related to continuously variable transmission (CVT). Some even directly understand E-CVT as adding an electric motor to CVT. It is not surprising that everyone misunderstood this. It is indeed difficult for manufacturers to name themselves in this way without confusion.

However, in fact, the two are completely different. CVT goes without saying much, with smooth driving, fuel economy, and low cost. But E-CVT is not the CVT gearbox and motor that many people understand, but a set of "power distribution systems". So, there is no relationship between E-CVT and CVT, and they are not a type of device at all.

Structural differences

The structure of CVT mainly consists of two sets of pulleys (active pulley and driven pulley) and transmission belt (steel belt), oil pump, hydraulic torque converter, actuator (valve body, oil circuit), sensor, control computer, etc.

The structure of E-CVT is much simpler. It does not have complex mechanisms such as clutches, torque converters, or gear shaft groups in traditional transmission systems, but is composed of a set of planetary gears and two motors.

Differences in working principles

In CVT technology, the No. 2 motor is used for starting, low-speed driving, and hybrid drive; The No.1 motor is mainly used to start the engine to generate electricity, and in most cases, the engine does not directly drive the wheels. Connect the engine planetary carrier, connect motor 1 to the sun gear, motor 2 to the outer gear ring, and the outer gear ring to the power output shaft.

E-CVT not only transmits power, but also couples the energy of the engine and motor to achieve power output. Therefore, it is actually a power combination system, which is a power distribution mechanism specifically designed for hybrid vehicles, also known as PSD, also known as Power Split Device. Toyota's official definition is "power separator", not "gearbox".

Power scheme differences

CVT refers to a regular mechanical continuously variable transmission.

E-CVT is an electric drive mechanism for a strong hybrid power scheme, consisting of two motors and a set of planetary gears. It can achieve electric drive, continuously variable speed, and energy recovery.

In summary, there is no relationship between E-CVT and CVT, let alone the issue of distinguishing between good and bad. It can be said that the E-CVT configuration does indeed include the functions of the gearbox, but it is also a "power distribution system".

Why use AT's transmission oil?

E-CVT consists of a set of planetary gears and two motors. So it is closer to the transmission of traditional AT gearboxes and gear mechanisms. So the official standard is to use AT transmission oil.

Below is the advertising time. Wells automatic transmission fluids include ATF, CVTF, DCTF, etc. We specialize in solving problems such as jerking, shifting, slow acceleration, and high fuel consumption in transmissions. Our excellent thermal oxidation stability and friction durability prevent the formation of paint films and sludge, keeping the gearbox clean. While reducing the production of oxides, we also provide long-lasting protection for the gearbox, preventing abnormal wear and bringing you a comfortable shifting experience.

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