Technology: What is IVT

An IVT’s (Infinitely Variable Transmission) ability to continually change ratio enables the engine to run at optimum conditions where required power is delivered with minimum fuel burn. This combined with the lack of a starting device and high overdrive (cruising at 80mph is possible with an engine speed of around 1,200rpm) produces a significant improvement in fuel economy.

A vehicle equipped with an IVT can achieve more than 18% fuel economy compared with its manual equivalent and between 20 and 28% in comparison to less energy efficient automatic models (dependent on duty cycle).

This fuel economy delivers both cost savings to the owner and enables manufacturers to meet the increasingly demanding fleet average targets being set by an increasing number of governments.

A KDS IVT provides an infinitely variable range of ratios from reverse through stationary and from extremely low speeds up to high overdrive.

At the low end, all power is transmitted through the variator. At the high end, all power is transmitted mechanically. Between these two extremes, power is transmitted as a blended mixture of the two with the ratio continually favouring mechanical power as it progresses upward through the range.

Reduced emissions

A corresponding reduction in carbon dioxide emissions is a natural consequence of Kinetics Drive Solutions. Inc's IVT fuel saving capability. This provides immense benefits to the environment in terms of reducing greenhouse gases.

Refined Drive

The Kinetics Drive Solutions. Inc (KDS) IVT smoothly delivers power from rest through to cruising, meeting the driver's expectations for speed, controllability and driving comfort. The lack of stepped ratios means that shifts are not felt when the vehicle varies its gearing ratios. The powertrain responds immediately to the drivers demand for acceleration (whether slowly or quickly), and when the pressure on the throttle is reduced, the engine revs drop away to an economical level until increased power is required again.

Added feature

Due to the unique way in which the KDS IVT operates the KDS software control lends itself to the incorporation of added features at no extra cost in terms of hardware or components - in fact components currently fitted may be able to be deleted or become redundant leading to further cost savings. Examples include:

• Remote Operational Control
• System Data Logging
• Remote Monitoring Capabilities

Cost Effective Solution

Unlike many technologies that deliver significant fuel economy, such as Hybrids and Electric vehicles, a vehicle with an IVT will cost no more to produce than the current model and will provide the same performance and in many cases a more refined drive.

The IVT has fewer components than existing automatic transmissions therefore when in volume production it is likely to cost the same or even less to manufacture.

Ability to tailor for different styles

KDS software has the potential to individually tailor the performance of the transmission to the user’s own driving style. It is even able to accommodate different driving styles. If so needed, KDS IVT can even be programmed to fully mirror the feel of a manual gearbox, satisfying the needs of the dedicated manual driver.

It is possible to program the KDS IVT for economy, performance or greater productivity in specialist off highway applications. It can therefore offer advantages in a wide range of vehicle types.

Equally, the KDS IVT is not limited to engine type as it can offer the same benefits when working with gasoline or diesel engines and even using gas turbines as the prime mover. Specific note is made that the technology is best suited towards narrow band or constant RPM engines.

Long product lifetime

When a manufacturer invests in Kinetics Drive Solutions. Inc IVT technology they can be assured that because of the versatility and simplicity of the core design that there is potential for further development leading to added benefits over many decades. The Kinetics Drive Solutions. Inc IVT also has a significant role in electric vehicles, hybrids and with other power sources currently under development.