continuously variable transmission

American  

noun

Automotive, Machinery.

1. a transmission, typically using rubber belts and pulleys, in which the ratio of the rotational speeds of two shafts, as the drive shaft and driven shaft of a vehicle, can be varied continuously within a given range, providing an infinite number of possible ratios. CVT

---

Example Sentences

There are two powertrain choices, the standard 2-liter, 147 horsepower four cylinder with a continuously variable transmission, or a 1.6-liter turbocharged four with 190 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic transmission.

From Seattle Times

The current 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and continuously variable transmission carry over from the outgoing model.

From Seattle Times

It’s more composed around turns, for example, and its continuously variable transmission leads to smoother acceleration than the Sportage’s six-speed automatic.

From Seattle Times

When the Integra is equipped with the continuously variable transmission, or CVT, the combined EPA rating pops up to 33 mpg.

From Seattle Times

The continuously variable transmission mimics automatic gear changes, eliminating the usual droning noise.

From Seattle Times