Torvec Variable Ratio Trans for G3 HD

[rdolan]

Alright guys, something new to get cranking on...



From the STARK'S COMPONENT LEDGER (from the Monday, October 31, 2002 issue):



Torvec to Supply New IVTs to 2003 Dodge Trucks



Torvec, Inc. , a developer of steering drive and suspension systems for tracked vehicles, infinitely-variable transmission, constant velocity joints, hydraulic pump and motors, will supply a generation III Infinitely-Variable Transmissions (IVT) to DaimlerChrysler AG's new 2003 Dodge Ram 3/4-ton 4x4 quad cab pick up trucks equipped with electronically-controlled 2004 emissions-compliant diesel engines built by Indiana-based Cummins. Inc.



DaimlerChrysler's new Dodge pick up trucks to be sold in the current fourth quarter will feature a 5. 9-liter turbo diesel engines built by Cummins.



Torvec, an approved Cummins original equipment manufacturer, chose the firm's engine size to better represent a sizable market for SUVs, light-duty trucks, delivery trucks, school buses, airport shuttle buses and class 3-5 medium-duty trucks. Torvec's IVT, used in the light-duty truck application, could double city mileage and remove up to 90% of the diesel particulates, or black soot.



End of quote from STARK'S COMPONENT LEDGER.



I'm just now starting to research (www.torvec.com).

 

[Lucas]

What the heck are they talking about?

 

[DiTrani]

I took a little 3-cyl Subaru with an infinite ratio transmission for a test drive 10 or so years ago. It was really strange - you mash the pedal and the car accelerates while the engine speed stays constant. In theory it could be very cool. Emphasis on the "theory" part...

 

[rdolan]

Seemed to come out of the blue :--)



Looks like DC is planning to put a stepless, variable ratio transmission behind the CTD in the HD Ram.



Continually Variable (ratio) Transmissions (CVT) have been gaining favor with the car companies for a while now. Audi introduced theirs in the US last year in the A4. ZF is developing one for Ford. GM has had one in the works for a long time. Suburu had one years ago. Honda offered a Civic HX with a CVT some years ago as well.



Many folks think CVTs are the next step (no pun) in integrated powertrains. They're a different driving experience, for sure. Nail the throttle and the engine spins up to it's sweet spot, while the electonics vary the input/output pulley diameters steplessly. It's not unlike a snowmobile. But with full powertrain electronic controls, the engine speed and load can be optimized for economy and emissions.



IMO, this is typical Chysler: Not really competing head-on with the other companies or matching anyone model for model. They tend to offer something different that generates love-it or hate-it reactions in the market, eg, G2 & G3 Rams, PT Cruiser, Viper, Pacifica, etc. You don't find direct couterparts to these vehicles at the other companies. Was the Dakota not a segment buster? It's not a bad strategy. Maybe the Torvec unit is DC's way of offering "something different" given that the R47 is out-gunned by the Allison and, well it's too early to comment on the new Ford 5spd auto, but it doesn't look bad. Sorry for the long post.